Michael and Emma’s Wedding – The Dower House Hotel, Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire

‘We just wanted to say a massive thank you for your magic… you were amazing and all our guests thought so too.’
Michael and Emma, The Dower House Hotel, Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, August 2024

Close-up magic at the Dower House – Image Courtesy of PM Photography

It was a tremendous privilege to be part of Michael and Emma’s wedding day celebrations at the delightful Dower House Hotel, Woodhall Spa. The glorious sunshine allowed the lovely couple and their guests to fully savour the beautiful environs of this stunning Lincolnshire venue.

Emma and Michael’s guests were a pleasure to entertain – image courtesy of PM Photography

Indeed, the fantastic weather also provided me with a wonderful opportunity to freely mix with Michael and Emma’s family and friends during drinks reception. Close-up card magic, classic illusions, mind-reading routines and curious predictions were delivered throughout this period.

Table magic during wedding breakfast – image courtesy of PM Photography

Emma and Michael’s guests were certainly ready to enjoy some entertainment, and the rustic charm of the Dower House complimented the spectacle magnificently. The exceptionally talented PM Photography were present to expertly capture all of those special magical moments throughout the day. Indeed, the fantastic photographs within this article demonstrate Jonathan’s amazing skill and precision, and I am very thankful that he has kindly shared them. Find out more about PM Photography at: PM Photography Lincolnshire.

A wonderful reaction to a mysterious prediction expertly captured by PM Photography

Emma and Michael had also requested that I deliver some table magic during the wedding breakfast. This form of entertainment is rather different to close-up ‘mix-and-mingle’ magic, and I must always ensure that my performances are blended into the schedule in an appropriate manner between the courses.
Entertaining the guests during this part of the wedding day allows me to perform a wide variety of illusions, sleight-of-hand and psychological effects which are all perfect for table-side. The guests, who I may have met during drinks reception, often invite me to entertain them during the meal.

Balloon modelling was provided for the younger guests – image courtesy of PM Photography

I always strive to include everyone at any event I am fortunate to perform at, and Michael and Emma’s wedding was no exception. Child-friendly magic and balloon modelling was delivered for the younger guests too.

Some special magic for Emma and Michael – image courtesy of PM Photography

It was also a great honour to perform some special magic for the newlyweds after the wedding breakfast. Jonathan ensured that the routine was masterfully captured for posterity!

It was a magical day at the Dower House celebrating Emma and Michael’s wedding! Image courtesy of PM Photography

Congratulations again to Michael and Emma! Thank you for investing your trust in me and asking me to entertain everyone on such a magical day!

The Dower House Hotel is an exceptional venue located in the picturesque town of Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire. Visit the website at: Dower House Hotel, Lincolnshire Venue

PM Photography are an award winning company based in Lincolnshire who travel far and wide to weddings and special events. Contact Jonathan now on 07834 015808 Email: info@pmphotography.uk Website: PM Photography Award Winning Images

David Fox is a professional magician based in the UK who travels throughout Lincolnshire and beyond performing at weddings, parties and corporate functions. Contact David on 07946 686258 Email: email@magician-midlands.co.uk Website: David Fox Magic Wedding Entertainer

Congratulations Vicky and James

Thank you for helping make our day so special, everyone thought you were amazing.

Vicky and James, Stancliffe Hall, Derbyshire, September 2022

It was tremendous to perform magic at the lovely Vicky and James’s wedding day at Stancliffe Hall near Matlock, Derbyshire last September. We were blessed with glorious sunshine, and it was a pleasure and a privilege to entertain alongside the exceptional Matt Lowe (photographer) who very kindly provided these outstanding images.

Indoors or outdoors, close-up magic is very versatile.
Image courtesy of Field Photographic.

Vicky and James had requested that I provide entertainment during both drinks reception period (immediately after the ceremony) and during early evening (from the end of wedding breakfast to first dance). These are always excellent times for some ‘mix-and-mingle’ close-up magic.

Some light entertainment after the ceremony. Image courtesy of Field Photographic.

The newlyweds’ guests were a joy to entertain, and I was delighted to be able to perform my full repertoire of card magic, classic illusions, mind-reading and sleight-of-hand in the stunning gardens of Stancliffe Hall. Matt expertly captured the action, and the photographs in this article reveal his tremendous talents as an award-winning wedding day photographer.

Magic helps to build new friendships. Image courtesy of Field Photographic.

The beauty of close-up magic is that it can be performed virtually anywhere. I have adapted and modified my act over the years so that my routines can be delivered in different environments and under varying conditions. It was a bonus to provide an impromptu parlour show of magic for a larger group of Vicky and James’s guests after the ceremony in the courtyard.

Entertainment for all generations. Image courtesy of Field Photographic.

It is always fantastic to entertain all the generations on a wedding day. One of the qualities of magic is that it appeals to all age groups and brings guests closer together. It was wonderful to provide a little child-friendly entertainment, along with balloon modelling, for Vicky and James’s lovely friends and family.

A special routine for bride and groom. Image courtesy of Field Photographic.

It truly was a magical day at Stancliffe Hall, and thank you again Vicky and James for calling upon my services. It was also wonderful to see you and your family and friends again last Christmas for your special party at the The Edgefold Club in Matlock! Hopefully there will be many more magical red letter days to come.

It was tremendous to be part of Vicky and James’s big day. Image courtesy of Field Photographic.

A very special thank you to Matt Lowe of Field Photographic for kindly sharing these wonderful photographs from the big day. You can find out more about Matt and his exceptional services at: Field Photographic

Artwork of Stancliffe Hall. David can create customised art for special occasions.

A sketch of Stancliffe Hall. As well as providing magic, David can also create artwork of special places. At the time of writing, this incredible venue is up for sale. Hopefully it won’t be long until weddings and special events return to Stancliffe Hall. A link to the Wikipedia page: Stancliffe Hall.

David Fox is a professional entertainer based in Nottingham, UK. Find out more about him at: David Fox Magic

Steve and Nicola’s Wedding Day – 30th March 2018 at Makeney Hall

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Congratulations Nicola and Steve! Some Champagne magic. Photograph courtesy of Jo Brew Photography

‘he kept the adults and kids entertained and captivated the whole time’

Steve and Nicola Fairclough, 30th March 2018

I was delighted when Nicola and Steve asked me to entertain their guests at Makeney Hall. We first met at the hotel on Mother’s Day 2017 when I had the privilege of performing some table magic for them. It is always a tremendous endorsement when a couple decide to call upon my services for such an important occasion – and Makeney Hall is a stunning location for a wedding.

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Magic is perfect for all generations. Photograph courtesy of Jo Brew Photography.

Drinks reception magic immediately after the ceremony always goes down very well on wedding days, and it was a real pleasure to mingle with Nicola and Steve’s guests in the bar area and drawing room. Close-up effects and routines are entertaining, but also have the added bonus of bringing together friends and family of both bride and groom who may have not met before. Card magic, sleight-of-hand illusions and feats of mind-reading are engaging, direct and very versatile – regardless of where the guests happen to be; they can be entertained.

After the speeches, it was fantastic to perform table magic and some child friendly entertainment in the Milford Suite. One of the most pleasing aspects of a wedding day is the opportunity to entertain all the generations present – from the youngest guest to the eldest. The presence of children on a wedding day always works well and livens up the proceedings. Balloon modelling is a colourful and vibrant addition which amazes both young and old. By this time the party was in full swing, and Nicola and Steve’s guests were a real pleasure to mix with.

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Visual magic and balloon modelling are always a hit on wedding days. Photograph courtesy of Jo Brew Photography.

It is always a great bonus if I have the opportunity to perform a special routine of magic for the newlyweds. The exceptional Jo Brew was the photographer for the day and masterfully captured an effect involving Champagne for Nicola and Steve. Jo is available for weddings and photo-shoots around Derbyshire and beyond, and can be contacted on her email address: jojobrewphotography2017@gmail.com. Her tremendous photographs throughout this blog article reveal her fantastic talent and ability to capture the vital moments on a wedding day.

It truly was a spectacular occasion at Makeney Hall and I am very fortunate to have played a role in Steve and Nicola’s magical day. As always, the highly professional team at the hotel did a sterling job in ensuring everything ran smoothly and the guests’ unique requirements were fulfilled. It is always a real pleasure to work with the lovely Antonia and all the conscientious members of staff.

Congratulations to Steve and Nicola!

Visit Makeney Hall’s website at: www.makeneyhallhotel.com or telephone Antonia and the team on: 0330 390 0492.

David Fox is a professional magician and freelance writer based in the Midlands. Visit his website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone him on: 07946 686 258.

 

Tom and Sarah’s Special Wedding at Kelham House Hotel

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‘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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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Sarah looked stunning for the big day. Maxine Holland who is based in Sheffield was make-up artist for the wedding.

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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.

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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.

John Hotowka – Wit and Wisdom

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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.

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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.

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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.

Sarah and Michael’s wedding at The Peak Edge Hotel

‘All of our guests had nothing but amazing things to say about you’

Sarah and Michael Jones, Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield, June 2016

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Close-up magic for Sarah and Michael’s guests

The Peak Edge Hotel near Chesterfield has established itself as one of the finest wedding venues in the region and David Fox was delighted when Sarah and Michael asked him to provide entertainment on their wedding day in June 2016. As well as providing exceptional cuisine, luxury accommodation, and exquisite function space, the hotel affords guests the unique opportunity to experience the glories of the Peak District nearby.

David was in his element mingling with the guests immediately after the wedding ceremony. Michael originally hails from across the Irish Sea, and guests had travelled from far and wide to enjoy this wonderful occasion. A particularly memorable moment was when David performed close-up magic within the bar area for some of the younger (and not so young) members of the wedding party. Indeed, the magician has a wide repertoire of effects in his locker to keep everyone amazed.

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It was a real privilege to perform some special magic for Sarah, Michael and all of their lovely guests

 

The lovely couple were naturally in hot demand for photographs during the drinks reception period and also took the opportunity to catch up with friends and relatives they hadn’t seen for a while. This is why it was wonderful for David to have the opportunity to perform some special magical effects for Sarah and Michael at the end of his performance. The Midlands magician always takes great pride in his art and it is a real pleasure to leave the newlyweds with a special memory from their wedding day revelries.

Why not contact the Peak Edge Hotel today to find out how your wedding day, or next special event, can be truly exceptional? Their website is: http://www.peakedgehotel.co.uk and the telephone number: 01246 566142.

David Fox is a professional magician who is based in the Midlands and provides customised entertainment packages for all sorts of special occasions. David’s website is: http://www.magician-midlands.co.uk and his contact number is: 07946 686 258.

Chris and Viola’s Magical Wedding at Harts Hotel

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Harts Hotel offers exceptional service, cuisine and facilities in the heart of the city

It’s an idyllic early autumn day in Nottingham. The city is bathed in salubrious sunlight and the rooftops of the prestigious Park Estate glisten majestically beneath a cloudless azure sky. Standing from the vantage point of Harts Hotel’s terrace, David Fox savours the panoramic paradise before him: the calmness, the serenity, the tranquillity, and then, as if by magic: the mysteriously enchanting melodies of distant bagpipe music drifting sublimely through the lukewarm air. Chris and Viola’s wedding day revelries are just about to commence…

David was delighted when Mr and Mrs Norton asked him to entertain their guests in September 2015 at Harts Hotel in Nottingham. It is always a massive privilege, and a pleasure, to be part of such a wonderful day. Indeed, Harts Hotel is one of the most prestigious and luxurious venues in the Midlands, and has earned an exceptional reputation for fine cuisine, first class facilities, and outstanding service. This is why many of the top celebrities and entertainers such as Derren Brown choose Harts Hotel when they come to visit and perform in the Nottingham area.

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Magic on the terraced area of Harts Hotel

The hotel boasts a spacious terraced area with magnificent views over the city. This is of course an ideal place for wedding day photographs, and David was very happy when Chris and Viola requested that he mingle with the guests during this period. One of the main strengths of a close-up magician like David is the capacity to perform under any conditions regardless of the weather. It was wonderful to perform card magic, illusions, mind-reading routines, and classic effects for the couple’s close family and friends. Indeed, some entertainment during this period of the wedding day helps to stimulate conversation, induce laughter, and set a very positive tone for the breakfast to follow.

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Whatever the weather. Card magic always goes down well with guests.

David Fox will always customise and adapt his performance depending on the wedding day schedule. It was a real pleasure to be asked to entertain during the early part of the evening reception immediately after the meal. Magic took place largely around the reception, upper garden, and bar areas of the hotel, where David was delighted to welcome Chris and Viola’s evening arrivals, as well as reconvene with any day guests who wanted to see more magic. Overall, it was a tremendous experience to be part of such a lovely couple’s day at Harts Hotel and to see so many beaming smiles on faces.

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All age groups can enjoy David’s magic!

A rousing rendition of The Proclaimers’ anthem ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ by the sensational Richie Muir heralded the onset of the evening festivities in the function suite. David would like to take this opportunity to once again say ‘congratulations’ to Chris and Viola and to wish them health, happiness and prosperity for many many years to come.

For more details about Harts Hotel, contact Events Manager Sally Martin today.

Telephone number: 0115 988 1900

Website: Harts Hotel Nottingham

David Fox is a professional magician who performs at events throughout the UK.

Telephone number: 07946 686 258

Website: David Fox Magician

Magic at Stubton Hall, Newark

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The majestic Stubton Hall is situated on the hinterland of Newark.

 ‘Your magic was perfect for entertaining our guests during the early part of the evening reception. Thank you so much again David.’

Leigh and Maxine Osborne, wedding, Stubton Hall, Newark, October 2015

Stubton Hall is fast becoming one of the most popular wedding venues in the East Midlands thanks to its myriad of enchanting attributes. This magnificent 19th century stately home has recently been stylishly renovated, and boasts spacious function spaces, 26 hotel rooms, and an impressive expanse of well-manicured parkland. David Fox always feels very privileged to entertain at Stubton Hall on wedding days, and a warm welcome from the exceptional events team is something he has grown fond of. For more details about the venue, and the fantastic packages on offer, contact Jessica Dewick on 01636 626187 or visit their website for more details: Stubton Hall.

David Fox’s magic is highly versatile and, regardless of the time of his performance or the weather conditions, he will blend his exquisite brand of entertainment effectively into your wedding day schedule. David was delighted to entertain guests outside during the drinks reception of Chandani and Richard’s wedding last summer. Thankfully the weather was excellent and, whilst welcome drinks and delicious canapes were savoured, David Fox amazed everyone with his rousing repertoire of reality-defying close-up routines. The magic continued throughout the wedding breakfast, and this always provides a wonderful opportunity for David to dazzle the top table with some very special wedding day magic. Indeed, bride, groom and close family do not always have an opportunity to witness the Midlands conjurer’s illusions during photograph time, but on this day some magical memories were truly created for all to cherish.

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Indoors or outside, a magician of David’s experience can perform anywhere!

In October 2015, Leigh and Maxine Osborne decided to call upon David’s services immediately after the speeches until the first dance. This is an excellent period for David Fox to mingle with both day guests and evening arrivals. David happened to be performing magic at The Parlour bar/restaurant in West Bridgford, Nottingham last March on the evening when Leigh asked his best man Maxwell to assume duties for the big day! A fully customised impromptu magic illusion was created and performed by David in order to allow Leigh to amazingly pop the question to his friend! And Maxwell proudly said ‘yes’.

The guests tend to be more animated during this period, and there is normally a little background music playing when the evening arrivals start to flow in. An experienced magician like David Fox can always adapt his repertoire of magic appropriately and deliver a more up-beat performance of stunning visual illusions, quick-fire card manipulation, and sensational sleight-of-hand. This is a wonderful way to warm up the guests and get everyone in a very positive frame of mind – ready to fully enjoy the evening revelries.

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Always a sensation at weddings! Book David Fox today.

David Fox looks forward to returning to the spectacular Stubton Hall soon to amaze more people on wedding days! Contact David today on 07946 686 258 to find out more, or alternatively why not visit his website? David Fox Wedding Magician