• Wedding Magazine - Cover
  • Oh, what treats we have in store for you inside our second issue! We have an exclusive interview with industry expert Charlotte O'Shea, the creator and editor of the fabulous wedding blog, Rock My Wedding. Charlotte shares with us her top bridal style tips and reminds us that any first class wedding should embrace personality and romance over society's expectations...

    To celebrate our stunning Wedding and Flowergirl Collections we have also put together a gorgeous feature to inspire the most stylish of 2012 weddings!

    Our glamorous go-to guide for all things wedding invites you again to marvel at the magic and elegance at the heart of planning your most romantic day that will become your forever treasured memory.

    Wedding Magazine - Contents
  • Name:
    Charlotte O'Shea

    Company:
    www.rockmywedding.co.uk

    Role within company:
    Founder

    Location:
    Based in West Midlands

    When did you start writing about weddings?

    Following my own wedding in 2009, I began writing a report about the associated planning on a popular Wedding chat forum. My story became popular quickly and was spotted by the editor of Cosmopolitan Bride magazine who asked if our wedding could be featured - and of course I said yes!

    Due to the popularity of my writing style and the realisation that UK brides would benefit from a frequently updated online resource featuring achievable and unique 'Big Day' inspiration, I began to develop Rock My Wedding.

    The Rock My Wedding blog achieves over half a million page views a month and we are constantly growing. We have lots of new features in store for 2012 too, so watch this space!

    What is it about weddings that made you want to specialise in it?

    There are so many creative aspects to planning a wedding: the fashion; the décor; the flowers - I love the fact that my job is full of such variety and no two days are the same.

    Where do you find your inspiration?

    Inspiration comes from everywhere; the catwalk, interior design magazines and trends and of course our very own stylish readers! We are always on top of popular trends and work out ways of incorporating colour schemes and fashion ideas into weddings - there is nothing quite as rewarding as seeing how a Rock My Wedding reader has been inspired by the ideas from our pages.

    Who is your bridal icon?

    I actually have two. The late, great Grace Kelly for her timeless elegance and sophistication, and Bianca Jagger for pushing the boundaries and daring to wear something a little different. The late 60's and early 70's was a truly fabulous fashion era.

    What elements should couples splash out on for a fabulous 2012 wedding?

    Photography is without a doubt the one element where we advise brides should always spend as much as they can afford. When the day is finished, it is the images
    that serve as the memories of all the significant moments and details. And of course the outfits - it is your one day to look and feel truly special so take time choosing something you love and that makes you feel a million dollars.

    What finishing touches do you think makes a wedding special?

    It is the personal details that make a wedding special... those aspects that show where the bride and groom have really made an effort to incorporate their own unique style. This could be anything from the blooms they have chosen, right down to the menu and style of cuisine. Personality and taste should definitely shine through in a wedding - it is the couple's chance to share the things they adore with the people they love.

    What tips would you give to our Coast brides for finding the right wedding dress for her?

    My first piece of advice would be to take >

    Wedding Magazine - Page 3
  • advantage of the Coast by Appointment service, I can't think of a better way than to spend time with your best girls trying on a selection of delicious Coast gowns in the luxury of your own private space. You will also benefit from the knowledge and experience of your own personal consultant who will be able to advise you on all of the new collections shapes, and styles and assist in finding you your dream gown.

    What are your predictions for 2012 bridal and bridesmaid trends?

    For Spring and Summer weddings we will see a lot of candy colours in shorter tea lengths. For Autumn and Winter, hemlines will become longer and palettes will be much warmer with a particular focus on jewel bright tones. In 2011 there was a growing trend for bridesmaids to wear the same dress but in different shades or the same shade but alternative styles, this trend will definitely continue into 2012.

    What is your favourite piece from the Coast 2012 Wedding Collection?

    I am currently having a love affair with the Cora Lace Maxi Dress, it is such an elegant design and perfect for all seasons too. I would suggest accessorising this with delicate pearl jewellery or a bold statement headpiece.

    What types of Wedding do you envision the Coast Wedding collection would be perfect for?

    The Coast Wedding collection caters for all types of wedding styles as there is such a variety of gowns, from the uber glamorous Aston Duchess Satin Maxi - perfect for an opulent Manor House affair to the simple and classic Julianna Dress, ideal for a chic city celebration.

    Finally, if you could give one piece of advice to our readers, what would it be?

    The Rock My Wedding tag line is "Your day your way" and that's what we stand by. Of course there are always going to be compromises and budget restrictions, but ultimately we want every bride to have the best day of their lives. Do not feel you should conform to society's expectations - do exactly what you
    want and enjoy it!

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