Look stunning on your wedding day with Shade Bridal of Nottingham. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
‘Jessica and Natalie were generous, patient and professional throughout’
Jane Paulson, Bride, August 2017
Every bride expects a dream wedding dress for her special day, and Shade Bridal of Nottingham spcecialise in making dreams come true. Expert advice, exceptional customer service, and a magical myriad of beautiful bridal gowns are available for brides-to-be in the East Midlands.
Elegance, class and perfection… Shade Bridal are exceptional. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography
Managed by Jessica Beard, Shade Bridal’s boutique is located at 100 Melton Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 6EP. The door is always open, and Jessica boasts an impressive CV having worked with Harvey Nichols in London. You can rest assured that you are dealing with the experts when you place your trust in Shade Bridal.
Meticulous attention to detail is one of the many hallmarks of Shade Bridal.
Address: 2b, 100 Melton Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 6EP
Contact Jessica and the team now to ensure you have the ideal wedding dress for your special day.
The author of the article is David Fox a professional entertainer and freelance writer based in Nottingham, UK. Visit his website at: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk
‘thank you for being part of our special day… you truly were amazing’
Tom and Sarah Shaw, Kelham House Hotel, 27th May 2017
I was delighted when Tom and Sarah asked me to perform magic on their special day at the beautiful Kelham House Country Manor Hotel near Newark. It is always a tremendous honour to be selected to entertain on a wedding day, and I was well aware of how meticulous the bride and groom had been in their preparations. Indeed, no stone was left unturned in order to ensure that their family and friends would be treated to a truly magical occasion.
Arriving in style. Sarah looks outstanding before the ceremony. Luxury wedding cars provided by: www.redroseweddingcarhire.co.uk
On arriving at Kelham House Hotel, the party was in full swing. Tom and Sarah had requested that I perform magic after the wedding breakfast throughout the early evening reception. This was an excellent time to ‘mix-and-mingle’ with guests and provide close-up magic both inside the bar area and around the extensive grounds of the venue. One of the highlights was undoubtedly performing a special routine for the newlyweds which culminated with a magical bottle of Champagne!
It was magnificent to perform intimate close-up effects for Tom and Sarah’s friends and family
The idyllic Kelham House Country Manor Hotel was the perfect venue for such a momentous occasion. As well as boasting exceptional event facilities, the wedding party can also stay in the luxury bedrooms. The convivial staff at the hotel are always a joy to work with and ensured that Tom, Sarah and their guests were very well taken care of. To find out more about this tremendous location, visit the website at: www.kelhamhouse.co.uk or contact Fran or Grace, the excellent Wedding and Events Team, on 01636 705266.
The tremendously talented photographer Mark Walker was on hand to capture everything.
A wedding day requires a dynamic, diligent and dependable photographer to immortalise those special moments. Sarah and Tom had called upon the gifted Mark Walker to perform these duties, and he did so with aplomb. Mark formed a wonderful rapport with the guests and ensured that the essence of the day was captured for eternity. Indeed, the photographs in this very article illustrate his tremendous talents. Visit Mark’s website: www.markwalkerphotography.net or call him now on: 01623 825109.
Sarah and Tom created a warm family atmosphere on the day with their choice of suppliers and it was fantastic to see the children enjoying themselves.
It is always fantastic to see children at weddings, and I enjoy entertaining them as well as the adults. Tom and Sarah went to great lengths to ensure the younger guests had a fantastic time and their choice of suppliers was very impressive to say the least. The innovative Hucksters Firepot were there to amuse the little ones and provide outstanding face painting. Visit their website: huckstersfirepot.co.uk or phone on: 0795 457 3305. Everyone loves a bouncy castle – even the adults – and Bounceabout Inflatables provided hours of fun for everyone in the garden. Find out more about them at: www.bounceaboutnewark.co.uk or phone on: 07855 955474. Truly an amazing addition to a unique day.
The cutting of the cake. And what a cake it is! Created by Choccywoccydoodah Cakes.
A sensational selection of confectionery ensured that Tom and Sarah’s guests could indulge themselves accordingly. Even Willy Wonka would have struggled to have produced such a fine array of tasty treats! The tremendous wedding cake was provided by Choccywoccydoodah. Their website is: www.choccywoccydoodah.com, telephone number: 01273 329 426. The Little Cupcake Company of Mansfield delivered an astonishing assortment of mouthwatering delights: TheLittleCupcakeComp13. telephone number: 07850 560883. It was lovely to meet David Allwood too during the evening reception and share a little magic with him. David is the affable owner of Pure Chocolate Indulgence and created a wonderful doughnut stand for Tom and Sarah’s guests to enjoy. David’s website is: www.pure-chocolate-indulgence.co.uk or phone him today on: 07427668997. Bliss Chair Covers also provided a chocolate fountain which went down a storm with the guests. Guests with a sweet tooth could also be found congregating around the magical sweet cart assembled by Simply Sweet Cart Hire. They also crafted stunning Ferrero Rocher displays. Website: www.simplysweetcarthire.co.uk and telephone number: 0771 906 6384.
The first dance is a special moment. DJ and love letters by Diverse Entertainments
Tom and Sarah’s choice of exceptional suppliers ensured that Kelham House Hotel was looking incredibly elegant and vibrant on their big day. Diverse Entertainments create bespoke packages for all sorts of events, and the dance floor, lighting and love letters created a stunning mise-en-scene for Mr and Mrs Shaw’s first dance. Website: www.diverse-entertainments.co.uk, phone number: 01636 643720. Bliss Chair Covers provided elegant table and chair decor, as well as a photo booth and chocolate fountain. Find them at: www.blisschaircovers.co.uk or phone now: 07850 178030. A wedding day would not be complete without flowers, and the exquisite Flower Barn ensured that enchanting arrangements adorned the venue. Their website is: www.flower-barn.co.uk and can be contacted on: 01636 679779.
Kelham House Country Manor Hotel looked vibrant on Tom and Sarah’s wedding day.
As you can see from the wonderful photographs, Sarah looked radiant for her wedding day. The exceptional Maxine Holland was the beautiful bride’s make-up artist and more details can be found about Maxine on this link: www.facebook.com/maxinehollandmua
Sarah looked stunning for the big day. Maxine Holland who is based in Sheffield was make-up artist for the wedding.Elegant high heels fit for a princess to walk down the aisle. Courtesy of Jimmy Choo.
It truly was a wonderful wedding to be part of and I will always consider myself to be very fortunate to have been part of Tom and Sarah’s special day. I wish them both health and happiness for the future, and do hope that I will have the opportunity to entertain them and their fantastic family and friends again in the future.
Congratulations Tom and Sarah.
The author of the article is professional magician David Fox. The winner of the 2014 Wedding Industry Experts Awards, David performs his unique brand of magic at weddings throughout the UK and beyond. Visit his website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone him today on: 07946 686 258. For Facebook updates and testimonials, please do ‘like’ and follow: www.facebook.com/MagicianMidlands.
The venue boasts a cafe, shop, magical museum and theatre too. Fans of mystery, intrigue and illusion will be delighted by this incredible experience. Indeed, the magical quiz visitors can participate in around the fantastic museum is fun for all age groups!
I have always found the staff to be extremely warm and welcoming at The Magic Alley & The World of Wizard’s Thatch. Whenever I visit Stratford-Upon-Avon, I now make a point of popping in to say hello.
David was delighted to share a little bit of magic with Barry at the Magic Alley. The staff are always exceptional.
Only a stone’s throw from Shakespeare’s birthplace on Henley Street, you will enjoy a wonderful time. Visit their website now at: www.seekthemagic.org or phone on: 01789 290969.
For more information about magician David Fox visit his website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone him on: 07946 686 258.
Click on the link to see David performing magic around Stratford-Upon-Avon and at The Magic Alley: David Fox Magician
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.
It was great to meet John at Lisa and Jon’s wedding at Stoke Rochford Hall
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Class, modernity and exceptional hospitality are the hallmarks of Harts Hotel. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
Since 2002 Harts Hotel of Nottingham has developed an exceptional reputation. A popular choice for celebrities and business people visiting this vibrant city, the venue is well within striking distance of all the major attractions. In 2016 Harts restaurant won the prestigious accolade of top eatery for fine dining in the coveted Nottingham Post Food and Drink Awards. This is a fitting testimony to the hard work, dedication and talents of the hotel team.
Voted the top restaurant in Nottingham, Harts’ cuisine is second-to-none. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
Harts has also become well-known in recent years as an excellent facility for wedding receptions. If you are currently planning your special day and want to celebrate in style, here are some of the reasons why you should choose Harts Hotel…
The Hotel offers ample accommodation. Perfect for you and your guests. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
Are your guests travelling from far and wide to share your day? The hotel’s range of exceptional accommodation will ensure that they can savour the experience. From a Garden Room, which permits entrance to the idyllic garden terrace, to a Superior Suite, with stunning views across the exclusive Park area of Nottingham, you and your loved ones will relish the experience. In this photograph Amy the bride prepares for her big day with the exceptional Cristina Lazzarotto – professional bridal and editorial make-up artist. Visit Cristina’s website for a stunning gallery of her artistry at: Cristina Lazzarotto Make-up or telephone on: 07793 613708 for more details.
Amy is looking radiant. Her chosen stylist is Alison Jenner Hair. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
Alison Jenner is one of the most sought after bridal hair-sylists in the UK today. Her work frequently features in top wedding publications and she boasts a galaxy of satisfied brides. What’s more, Alison lives locally and will be delighted to assist you. View her wonderful portfolio at: Alison Jenner Hair.
Harts Hotel works very closely with tried and trusted wedding suppliers who have many years of experience. Shade Bridal of Melton Road, Nottingham will provide you with an exceptional customised service. Why not pop into their impressively adorned showroom for some friendly expert advice? Contact Jessica today at: 0115 982 2820. Alternatively, visit their website at: Shade Bridal.
Exquisite bouquets and floral displays by Pam Gibson will bring magic and splendour to your day.
If you are seeking a floral designer with a difference, Pam Gibson Floral Designs are on hand to provide an elegantly ethereal quality to the proceedings. Pam’s wonderful displays truly have to be seen to be believed. Telephone number: 0115 590 4045. Visit the website for more information: Pam Gibson Floral Designs.
Spoil your guests with Strawberry Cupcakes. Photograph Courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
Treat your nearest and dearest to the deliciously divine wedding cake of Strawberry Cupcakes, Trent Bridge. A warm family service coupled with their masterful talents will ensure that tastebuds tingle on your special day. Phone number: 0115 998 9891. Or why not click on Strawberry Cupcakes for more details?
Linzi of That Black and White Cat will ensure that everything is in order for your wedding day. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
Planning your wedding day is an exciting once-in-a-lifetime journey, and Linzi at That Black and White Cat wedding planning will ensure that everything is organised with precision. An award-winning event company, make your dream wedding become reality in their magical hands. Plan with confidence and contact Linzi on 01509 769 194 today, or visit her website at That Black and White Cat.
The sensational Campbell Bass serenades and enchants Amy and Wes. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
Entertainment is a key element of any wedding celebration and the outstanding vocals of Campbell Bass will enchant your guests. Campbell’s warm personality and unique style always creates a blissful ambiance. His natural ability to create an affable rapport with any audience is truly captivating and makes him one of the most sought after vocalists in the UK. Telephone number: 07815 179275. Visit his website at: Campbell Bass.
David Fox’s magic is versatile and his performance can be customised. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
Why not amaze your guests with some close-up magic? A wedding reception is a perfect opportunity for magician David Fox to mystify everyone. David was invited to entertain at HRH Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London and performed at the centenary of Westminster Abbey’s famous choir school. Contact David on: 07946 686 258. His website is: David Fox Magic.
Jay Glenn‘s photography may be outstanding, but his natural ability to strike a wonderful rapport with bride, groom and guests is truly tremendous.
The outstanding selection of photographs in this article reveals the prodigious talents of professional wedding and commercial photographer Jay Glenn. Highly experienced and passionate about his craft, Jay will literally work wonders on your big day and ensure every special moment is captured for eternity. Phone Jay now on 07572 604 336 for some friendly advice. For more about him, and for examples from his extensive and impressive portfolio, visit: Jay Glenn Photography.
Contact Harts Hotel today to find out more. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.
To find out more about how your wedding day in Nottingham can be a truly spectacular occasion, contact Events Manager Sally Martin on 0115 947 7584. The hotel website can be accessed via this link: Harts Hotel Nottingham.
‘Your magic was absolutely amazing and the tricks were just impossible’
Joy Green (Darren’s Mum) December 2016
It is always a massive privilege to be invited to perform magic in someone’s house, and I was delighted when Joy asked me to perform magic at her son Darren’s 50th birthday bash in Peterborough. Indeed, providing an entertaining show in such conditions is the ultimate test for the magician. The opportunity to demonstrate my craft in such an intimate setting and in such close proximity to the audience is truly wonderful. Furthermore, I am also very humbled when someone like Joy invests such a high degree of trust in me to interact with their nearest and dearest in the family home.
When travelling to a house party, the same things always pop up in my mind… I hope that the family and guests will like me and we can quickly strike up a positive rapport… My show has been prepared thoroughly, but will everyone enjoy it and respond as I anticipate? How will I react if we have to alter the schedule in any way? Will there be more or less people present than we originally thought? Sometimes things can change quickly when it comes to such special events and my job is to be flexible and accommodating.
It is always fantastic to entertain all age groups at a house party. The magic should appeal to everyone present.
On arrival, my pre-performance worries quickly evaporated when I received a tremendously warm welcome from Joy, Darren and their family and friends. I immediately and instinctively knew that this was going to be a very special party to remember. Darren’s guests were clearly ready and primed for a parlour show of magic with a difference.
Having discussed the schedule in detail with Joyce beforehand, I had created a show which encompassed card magic, sleight-of-hand, illusion, mind-reading and classic visual effects with plenty of audience participation. I felt that this type of performance and strategy would be suitable for both the adults and children present. Indeed, my philosophy is that it is vital to include all of the guests present (from the youngest to the not so youngest) when entertaining at any special occasion.
Darren’s family and friends were fantastic. They made me feel instantly welcome and helped make the magic work!
It truly was a massive pleasure and a privilege to entertain such a lovely group of people. After the grand finale, and having had the opportunity to chat and get to know everyone, I truly considered myself very fortunate to have been part of Darren’s special birthday celebrations. Indeed, I would like to say ‘thank you’ again to Joy for calling upon my services and to her family and friends for making me so welcome. ‘Happy birthday’ once more to Darren and I do hope I have the opportunity to see you and everyone again in the future. Best wishes from David.
For more details about how David can make your house party extra special visit his website at: David Fox Magic.
Located in close proximity to Stratford-Upon-Avon, The Ettington Chase Hotel is an exceptional venue for your next special event in Warwickshire. This popular four star hotel boasts ample function space for weddings, parties and corporate events. It is also an excellent choice for travellers seeking to explore Shakespeare country, being situated within seven miles of Stratford’s elegant town centre.
Magician David Fox is a popular choice of entertainer for event organisers in and around the Stratford-Upon-Avon area. He can customise unique packages to suit all types of special occasions. From weddings to corporate functions, David will amaze your guests with close-up magic, illusions and mystifying demonstrations of mind-reading and prediction which defy any logical explanation.
A wedding in Stratford-Upon-Avon would certainly not be complete without the flowers. Melissa at Your Big Day Events is one of the region’s most sought after suppliers, and her dazzling arrangements have to be seen to be fully appreciated. Why not contact her today to find out more about her exceptional service on 01788 537555?
David was delighted to meet wedding photographer Keith Gray at the hotel last week and has been very privileged to have worked alongside him in the past. Brides can rest assured that they will receive a first class service on their wedding day when Keith is the man behind the lens. One of the most experienced photographers in the wedding industry, contact him on 07967585789.
Music is of course an essential ingredient of any wedding day or social gathering. The inimitable Neil Astbury has established himself as one of the most outstanding vocalists in the trade and continues to amaze audiences throughout the UK and beyond. From Frank Sinatra to Robbie Williams, Neil is the man you need to make your event extra special and get everyone in the party mood. Neil’s website is: http://www.nealastbury.com.
Visit Ettington Chase Hotel’s website at http://www.ettingtonchasehotel.co.uk to find out how your next special event in Warwickshire can be accommodated. David Fox is a professional magician who is based in the Midlands, he can always be contacted on 07946686258.
The exceptional Dovecliff Hall is ideal for event organisers planning a special occasion around East Staffordshire. Boasting an exquisite Georgian exterior, perfectly manicured gardens, and an idyllic rustic setting on the hinterland of Burton-Upon-Trent, it truly is a marvellous location for your next special event. This four star hotel may be situated within several acres of serene countryside, but it is in close proximity to the A38 which makes it an excellent choice of venue for those travelling from both East and West Midlands alike.
David Fox is always delighted to perform magic at Dovecliff Hall. Whether it is a wedding, corporate event, party, or promotion, his magic is perfect for the occasion. The hotel offers ample space for functions large and small. Indeed, David’s close-up magic can even be performed outside if the weather is suitable, and the terrace at Dovecliff Hall is perfect for guests to enjoy a drink and savour the majestic setting.
Notable local suppliers for your wedding or special event at Dovecliff Hall are:
Johnson’s the Florist – located in Burton on Trent and will provide exceptional flower arrangements for your wedding day and special occasion. A friendly family business who take great pride in providing a top class service.
Brides looking for beauty treatment to look stunning for the special day need look no further. Laura and her team at Beauty by Laura Jayne are always on hand to provide you with a fantastic makeover with a difference.
For first class customised wedding stationery, Rosie at Little Vixen Designs will ensure that all of your unique requirements are fulfilled, and more… Rosie’s extensive portfolio of hand-crafted stationery needs to be seen to be fully appreciated!
The Event Lady is always on hand to ensure that you have the best table decorations on display for the most important day in your life. Friends and family will be amazed by the exceptional table displays on your wedding day!
Why not contact Dovecliff Hall today on 01283 531818 to find out how Helen and her highly dedicated team can make your next special event one to remember?
David Fox is a professional magician who is based in the Midlands and travels throughout the world performing his unique brand of magic and illusion. He can be contacted on 07946686258. Website: David Fox Magic.
Located in close proximity to 
David Fox Magic 