So ... I'm excited to tell you that the pictures from the wedding fair are being edited and will be up soon.  The day goes by in a whirl for me and I love it when I see the after-fair photos as it reminds me of how wonderful all my fab exhibitors are and what a great day we all had.  Keep checking in and we should have a fab post about the fair next week.

In the meantime, I want to share an amazing event I'm involved with in April and I hope you'll be as excited as I am!

Jezebel Events Presents

CLIFTON HILL COSTUME & TEXTILES SPRING LAUNCH

Thursday, 18th April 2013

Some of you Vintage and haberdashery fiends will remember the amazing treasure trove on Clifton Hill, run by the lovely Gillian Hodder, who sadly passed away in early 2011.

Over the last two years, the shop has been refurbished but, even more importantly, Gillian's fabulous 30 year collection has been lovingly sorted through and reorganised and after lots of hard work the new curator will be opening the shop this spring!

To celebrate the forthcoming opening, Bristol Vintage and Sue Fyfe-Williams of Aunties Vintage China are continuing to work as 'Jezebel Events' to bring you a glorious launch night on Thursday, 18th April at Clifton Hill House.  This beautiful building will be the stunning venue for an evening of glamour, fashion and fun with a marketplace full of goodies to buy including jewellery, headwear, bags, gifts, prints, clothes from the shop and more!  You can wander through the model tableaux showcasing some amazing clothes from different eras, enjoy music from our favourites, The Marionettes, and brilliant  DJ Rocka's Roadhouse and be stunned by fabulous feats of magic from Darren Campbell, all culminating in an amazing catwalk of clothes and accessories.

To find out more about the evening and to buy tickets take a look at our blog:  http://www.jezebelevents.blogspot.co.uk

While we're waiting for the pictures from last week, I thought I'd tell you a little bit about my next two ventures.  First up is: 

THE WEIRD & WONDERFUL WEDDING WORLD SHOW!

Last autumn, when Emily of Fishee Designs Photo Booth moved to Bristol, we met up for a coffee and a gossip.  I'd met Emily earlier last year when she exhibited at the Bristol Vintage Wedding Fair and we hit it off straightaway, so it was lovely to know she was going to be in Bristol and I could get to know her better.  That morning over coffee we agreed we felt it was time for a truly alternative wedding show in Bristol - for all those brides out there who want something different other than vintage.  I'd come across so many amazing business who didn't necessarily fit into the 'Vintage' niche whilst researching the Fair and Emily had met lots of fascinating people on her Photo Booth travels.  

Incredibly, when I got home, I had a call from the lovely Sarah, of At-Bristol, to talk about the possibility of a wedding fair at their amazing venue, and a little light bulb went off in my head - the PERFECT venue for an alternative fair!

So, since then, Emily and I have been talking to all sorts of amazing exhibitors and we think  you'll love what we've come up with for Bristol's first truly alternative wedding fair - fairytale dresses, out of this world accessories and the cream of alternative exhibitors just dying to share it all with you!

To make it a really different event, we decided to hold the show in the evening with fabulous bands and bars.  The incredibly generous At-Bristol are offering every guest who pre-registers a free Kir Royale on arrival to get you in the mood, and we have a catwalk under the stars in the Planetarium.  

I love working with Emily as she's so full of enthusiasm, and, to top it all, is incredibly creative - the ying to my organisational yang!  She's produced the stunning artwork for our logo and built our funky blog.

I was thrilled when she suggested producing a glossy magazine for the show and have never had so much fun as the day of the photo shoot with our amazing team of hair and make-up artists and the coolest models you could meet!  Laura Power, the photographer, is a genius and totally brought our vision to life!

The magazine is launched today - we are SO proud of it and it will give you a great feel for what the show has to offer.

So - get over to the Weird and Wonderful Wedding World Show site now and take a look at all the amazingness on offer!

Entry is free if you pre-register (£5 if not) and pre-registration closes on Friday 5th April!

Watch this space for news of another venture I'm involved in!

AND THE WINNER IS ....

The winner of the 'Sunday Social' competition is Amber Druce!  Well done Amber, who gave the correct answer of 'Keda Breeze'.  Keda will be in touch with details of your tickets.  Sorry to everyone else who entered - but hope you'll still get to go along and enjoy the 'Sunday Social' and watch this space for more competitions!

Keep an eye out too for Hoochie Coochie's NEXT event, the Wonderland Ball on 2nd May!

HOW TO AVOID THE POST WEDDING FAIR BLUES!

SUNDAY SOCIAL COMPETITION!

We SO look forward to our Vintage Wedding Fair every year, but we always feel a little bit blue when it's all over ... so we're thrilled we've got something to look forward to as this coming Sunday (17th March) sees the arrival of the first fabulous Sunday Social from Hoochie Coochie!  We're so excited that we almost don't mind that the wedding fair is over for another year!

To mark the launch of what promises to be one of Bristol's hottest events, Hoochie Coochie are giving away 6 tickets to one lucky winner for the first Sunday Social!

To enter the draw just answer the following question: "Who is the curator & Art Director of Hoochie Coochie Kabaret?" (take a look at the Hoochie Coochie site for your clue).

Send your answer, by 6 pm on Friday 15th to: info@bristolvintage.co.uk, along with your name and address.  Tickets will be drawn on the evening of Friday, 15th March.

Here's all the info, and watch out for more Sunday Socials over the coming months!

SUNDAY SOCIAL FROM HOOCHIE COOCHIE

5-11pm, Sunday 17th March, Mauretania Bar and Lounge, Park Street, BS1

Tickets £9 from www.hoochiecoochiekabaret.com

Contact Keda Breeze: info@hoochiecoochiekabaret.com and Bristol Ticket Shop

"Have you fancied the idea of living it up in a private members' club but thought that it might be a bit, well ... not quite your scene?  Well now Sunday Social, the latest spin off event from Hoochie Coochie, the renowned Bristol creators of super fun parties, could be the latest addition to your weekend.  Sunday Social combines the decadence of the Mauretania's Members Room with kitsch entertainment and Sunday afternoon fun.

It is to be spread over five lavish wood-panelled rooms of the Mauretania and Java on Park Street in Bristol City centre.  Sunday Social interactive games and fun, mixing and mingling with new and old friends.  There will be a games room hosted by our showboys and showgirls where you can play the likes of Jenga, Connect Four, card games and Twister!

Expect other ridiculous delights such as 80's karaoke, Rock 'N Roll Bingo and pole dancing unicorn.  to get you in the party mood the cocktails will be two for one all night.  Later in the night things will gravitate to The Ballroom with DJ LloydiTron (Wonky) where apparently there really is a light-up dance floor!

Sunday Social has more emphasis on the interactive elements of the Hoochie Coochie than a big stage show, but still expect knock-our performances from the likes of cabaret luminary Audacity Chutzpah, the brilliantly crap failed tribute act, Fanny Fontaine, and belly dance star Natty Bom Batty.

The Mauretania was, in fact, the first ever building in Bristol where Hoochie Coochie was hel, back in 2005.  Since then, Hoochie Coochie really has created some really large scale events and is one of the most nationally renowned shows of its kind.  Hoochie Coochie's producer Keda Breeze says "I am really thrilled to be returning to the Mauretania.  I like to create experiences as well as shows, and for me an experience starts with setting it in a special location, and you really couldn't get any more wonderful than this building".

That all-important question of what to wear?  As always, dressing up is big business at Hoochie Coochie.  The theme for Sunday Social is OTT and 'dress to impress': glamour, glitter, evening wear or ANYTHING flamboyant.  Hoochie Coochie say they don't really mind what you wear so long as you make an effort.  It's not compulsory to dress up, but apparently, if you don't you will probably wish you did!

Tickets cost £9 and are available from the Hoochie Coochie website and from Bristol Ticket Shop.  This is an exclusive event with limited capacity so, as always, with Hoochie Coochie advance booking is strongly recommended.

THANKS FOR ANOTHER FABULOUS FAIR!

Just a quick note to say thanks to all our amazing exhibitors and all you fabulous visitors to Sunday's Vintage Wedding Fair.

Our third year was a great success and we had great fun!

I'm still recovering, but I'll be posting up photos over the next week or so from our on-the-day photographer Marie Man (http://www.marieman.com/)  so you can take another look at all the wonderfulness on offer!

Watch this space ...

FINAL DETAILS FOR TOMORROW'S 

BRISTOL VINTAGE WEDDING FAIR!

I've spent the morning with Kirsten (aka The Little Wedding Helper) and Katie from Clifton Pavilion, getting things ready for tomorrow and I'm SO excited about this year's fair.

We've got even more gorgeous exhibitors and more entertainment and we can't wait to open the doors to you all tomorrow morning.

Just to remind you of the details, the fair will be open from 10am to 4pm, entry is free and exhibitors are over two floors and don't forget to visit the car park, across the road and through the gate (it will be sign-posted) to see the gorgeous Dandy Cabin and to get hair & make-up done by Esme of Esmeralda's Vanity!  We've very sad news in that Cool Classy Campers aren't able to make it but hope to see them next time and we have all their information cards to share with you.

There's a map and directions on how to get to Clifton Pavilion on the 'News' page of the blog (just scroll down).

Just to let you know that Homes &  Antiques will be at the fair for an article they're doing, which we're very excited about.

Do remember to bring cash or cheques.  Some of our exhibitors may have card facilities but not all of us do and if you find that perfect dress or accessory you'll want to snap it up there and then!

As usual, we will have a changing room with one of our lovely team who can help you with your dresses and accessories.

Apart from that we're just waiting for you to turn up and say hello (oh - and can someone do a little 'sun dance' for tomorrow please!).

Can't wait to see you all tomorrow - bring your Mum, have tea & cake in the tea rooms and come and see all the gorgeous goodies on offer!

With love,

Ali xx

Pennywell Pictures

Pennywell Pictures is the brainchild of the lovely Chris Gape. Bristol-based Chris took his love of photography, went on to study film-making, and has been working professionally in film and television ever since with both the BBC and Aardman Animations.

It was while working at the BBC and being asked to help edit a colleagues wedding video, which had been shot using vintage film that inspired him to set up Pennywell Pictures. Chris loves the look and feel of using Super8 cameras to capture that nostalgic and sentimental aspect to a day that is inherently special. 

Click here to watch one of his gorgeous vintage-style wedding videos.

Your wedding day is an incredibly special event and each one is totally unique. The day brings together families and friends from all over and is full of memories to capture. Chris believes that there's no better way of capturing that special day and all the memories than in a unique and vintage way; “In years to come when you want to remind yourself of all those special moments, the nostalgic feel of a vintage wedding film is that something to cherish for the rest of your marriage together. When I film a wedding I like to blend into the background and go with the flow of the day. I like to capture those natural moments of reuniting friends and families and those beautiful moments of emotion and celebration.” 

Follow the adventures of Pennywell Pictures on their website, although with the new year and all the excitement of joining us this Sunday at our Fair, Chris has decided he’s going to give it a new look! Whilst the website’s under development, you can see all of his vintage-style wedding videos here or pop down to our Fair this Sunday, March 10^th at the Clifton Pavilion and meet him in person! 

Bristol Vintage Crockery & Prop Hire

For those of you who don't know what Bristol Vintage actually do (apart from organise the Fair), it's about time we introduced ourselves! Over the last 4 years we've been supplying our beautiful vintage mismatched china for weddings and events throughout the country, and we're happy to say we've been loving every minute!

Photography courtesy of Frances Taylor Photography

Over the last year SO much has happened and it's really exciting to share our news here before the Fair!

Photography courtesy of Nikki Kirk Photography

We never stop adding to our collection (it's a bit of an obsession!) and we pride ourselves on having a fabulously eclectic mix. We can now supply afternoon tea crockery for over 300 people and full vintage dinner crockery and cutlery for up to 150. We're also able to dress and style your venue and we regularly work closely with Kirsten, The Little Wedding Helper to give you a really fabulous event styling service.

Photograph courtesy of Nikki Kirk Photography

Our props collection is always growing and we're now able to offer bunting, gramophones, picnic hampers & rugs, typewriters, candlesticks, a 1940's tea trolley, embroidered linens and even our gorgeous bike, Mabel (who now has a beau, Sam!).

Photograph courtesy of Alexandra Brezezicka

Over the past few years we've worked with some really fabulous people and can recommend beautiful dresses, stunning accessories, quirky venues and almost everything you can imagine for your wedding.

Photograph courtesy of David J Berwyn

Last year we created Jezebel Events with Sue from Auntie's Vintage to set up bespoke events and we're currently organising the launch party for the re-opening of Clifton Hill Costume & Textiles.

We've also joined forces with Emily from Fishee Designs Photo Booth to organise Bristol's first truly alternative wedding event, The Weird and Wonderful Wedding World Show.  We recently completed the most amazing pre-show shoot with Laura Power of Laura Michelle Photography - here's a sneak peek!

Photograph courtesy of Laura Michelle for WWWW

And finally ... if you're looking for something totally different, Katie has started up Bristol Vintage's sister company, The Dandy Cabin - a stunning Teardrop trailer, from which she can serve teas, coffee and even bubbly from our very own Babycham glasses.  You can see Katie and the Dandy Cabin at the Wedding Fair on Sunday!

For more information on what we can offer, take a look at our website: www.bristolvintage.co.uk  or follow us on Facebook  & Twitter, but do make sure you say hello on Sunday at our next Bristol Vintage Wedding Fair!

Clifton Pavilion

We’re lucky enough to be holding our third Bristol Vintage Wedding Fair at this wonderful venue on March 10th, so why not bring your Mum along for a delicious coffee and a sumptuous treat served on only the best crockery supplied by Bristol Vintage.

It’s the perfect time to take a look at this grand venue. Did you know you can hire the Clifton Pavilion for your own wedding? Perfectly suited for such occasions, it is both elegant and unique - a perfect venue for your big day. It boasts gorgeous rooms, stunning décor, high ceilings and views from the balcony overlooking the beautiful gardens.

The Clifton Pavilion has a license to host wedding ceremonies and civil partnerships too, so you can enjoy both your ceremony as well as your celebrations at the same venue. Available on an exclusive basis for up to 120 guests and with complimentary access to the Bristol Zoo Gardens, you can enjoy an incredible range of photo opportunities. Plus, your guests are welcome to explore the Zoo and see a host of animals from gorillas to penguins, complete with a soundtrack of roaring lions.

From your first step, through to your big day, Clifton Pavilion’s events team are on hand to assist you with everything from choosing your menu, wine and flowers to your entertainment and table plan. They use the finest locally sourced, sustainable and ethical ingredients to deliver a diverse range of menu options all created by their experienced chefs. Their functions team is professional, helpful and on hand to ensure your day is delivered perfectly, leaving you to relax and enjoy.

Clifton Pavilion is a truly a unique setting, so come along to our Fair on Mother’s Day and take a look for yourself. Entrance to our Bristol Vintage Wedding Fair doesn’t include free entry to the Zoo on the day, but there’s so much else to see and do, you won’t have a minute to spare.

Clifton Hill Costume and Textiles

Clifton Hill Costume and Textiles is an antique and vintage costumier - and a haberdashery!

Boasting an impressive hoard of vintage treasures, costume and textiles, and haberdashery including buttons, fasteners, buckles, hats & hat decorations, lace ribbon, gloves, costume jewellery and many more rare and fashionable curios; you’re guaranteed to find something unique for your wedding.

The store hosts stunning examples of lace dresses from the turn of the twentieth century, sections of beaded dresses rescued from the 1920’s and a variety of trims, handmade and machine lace. If you're looking for inspiration or pieces for customising your outfit, go and spend an afternoon immersing yourself in this Aladdin’s cave! 

Jenny also stocks wedding dresses and two-piece outfits ready to wear or for alteration (each item is a one off). She has evening dresses, nightwear and accessories, including new and handmade items from vintage stock, by a handpicked selection of designers. For the mother of the bride there’s an extensive range of beautiful ensembles including pieces by Kunick, Harrods designers and Jacques Vert .

If you're looking for something specific for your big day and struggling to find it locally or online, email Jenny at cliftonhillcostume@gmail.com or visit the shop from Spring 2013 to browse her fascinating collection. Visit Facebook to be kept up to date with offers and events, but make sure you stop by and meet Jenny at our next Fair – she’ll have just a taste of all the treasures with her to inspire you.

Bristol Metropolitan Orchestra

We’re delighted that the Bristol Metropolitan Orchestra will be taking part in our Fair this Sunday at the Clifton Pavilion.

The Bristol Metropolitan Orchestra can help to make your wedding a very special day. Their wedding quartet can provide music for the service and/or reception, tailored to the type of ceremony you’re having. The bride and groom can choose music from a wide repertoire and make special requests. Their string quartet will be present at the wedding location for two hours, providing your special day with a romantic ambience - live music that’s both beautiful and stylish.

Sample Repertoire:

Pachelbel: Canon

Handel: The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba

Handel: Hallelujah Chorus

Mozart: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik

Bach: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring

Dvorak: Humoresque

Karl Jenkins: Palladio

Music from the film “Pirates of the Caribbean”

Music from the film “Titanic”: “My Heart Will Go On”

The Bristol Metropolitan Orchestra is happy to provide further information and discuss practical details upon request.  As a charity, they would be looking for a donation of £400 to provide their very special service at your wedding. For more information or to book, please contact Pam Bell on mail@bristolmetropolitanorchestra.com or phone her on 07977487131.