Colin Cook - Links Page

One of the most important things with weddings (and one which many suppliers simply don't get) is that it is NOT about the band, or the DJ, or the photographer, the venue manager, the wedding planner or the florist. It is purely and simply about the Bride and Groom and their guests. This is where quality and teamwork come together to provide an event which is more than the sum of it's parts. These are the suppliers who think in terms of YOU, not of themselves, and those are the people I most enjoy working with.

If you contact any of the professionals listed below I would be grateful if you could mention that you obtained their details from me. You never know - they may do the same for me one day!

As this section is quite long you may prefer to go directly to a particular type of supplier rather than read the entire page here are some quick links (it's more fun to read the entire page though!):

Forget-Me-Not - Kathryn has incredible talent, and the amazing ability to read your mind, pick out your dreams, and turn them into floral perfection! She specialises in Weddings and is also the Castle Florist for Auckland Castle. Kathryn is based in Bishop Auckland. Be careful though, because once you have seen her work, you will be smitten! Kathryn is also one of the nicest, most helpful people you could meet, as Shelley's Chief Bridesmaid discovered, as filmed on Don't Tell The Bride! She is currently building a website, but for the time-being can be contacted on 07817 192827 or her e-mail address is kathrynforgetmenot@hotmail.com

Poppybridal - The first time I saw Poppybridal's dresses, all I could say was 'wow'. These ladies really know their stuff, and supply some absolutely exquisite Wedding Gowns and other bridal wear. You can visit them at their shop in Darlington (20 Duke Street), phone them on 01325 487372 or click to their website at www.poppybridal.co.uk

Pure Weddings UK - Anna offers some truly lovely dresses, as well as a range of Menswear for hire. She is based in Durham City, at Claypath, and their website is at www.pureweddingsuk.com or you can phone them on 0191 384 8038

The Tailor - Michael Coates provides a Designer and fully bespoke service for both Gentlemen and Ladies. He can be found at Bondgate in Darlington and his website is www.the-tailor.net or you can phone him on 01325 741567

There are some very good photographers in the North East, with styles to suit all tastes and fees to suit most budgets. Unfortunately there is also a proportion of 'prima donnas' who consider themselves the star of the show. For me to recommend a photographer, he or she must not only be a great photographer, but must also be committed to being part of a team working towards giving the Bride and Groom their best day ever. Some photographers work closely with the DJ/MC to get the photos they want, others do their own thing. Fortunately, we have a lot of great photographers here who also are great to work with! Here is a selection of those who are easy to get on with, and who produce beautiful photographs in their own respective styles. This is quite a long list, so I'll point out that there are links to venues below this!

Mark Miller - Mark is one of those chaps who seems to have a natural talent for getting great pictures no matter what. He is truly an excellent photographer, highly motivated and professional, and a really nice guy. His website is at www.markmiller.co.uk and don't forget to have a read of his blog!

Based in Newcastle, Kenn is a fantastic Wedding Photographer who has won several prestigious awards for his work. Ken is also a thoroughly nice chap!

Andrew McGregor - Another fantastic photographer, Andrew is very creative, and a magician at capturing those natural and humorous shots! Andrew is based in Northumberland, near Hexham, and his website is www.acmphotography.co.uk

Alan Mason is one of the North East's top photographers. Again, he is a thoroughly nice chap, and mad as a hatter! Well, he may prefer the term eccentric. Whichever, he is a creative genius who is also completely professional and does everything he can to ensure the perfect day! Have a look at www.alan-mason.co.uk

G-Photography - Graham Shirley is another jolly nice chap who just happens to take marvellous photographs. He is passionate and creative. Graham is based in Whitley Bay, and his website is at www.g-photography.co.uk

Forever Memories - Claire Elliott is one of those photographers who can fuse formal style with contemporary thinking to produce delightful and memorable work. She is based in Shildon and her website is http://www1.clikpic.com/fmphoto/index.html

Henry Aarvold has the amazing talent of being able to capture atmosphere into a photograph. He has an amazing eye for style, lighting, occasion - and the talent to reproduce those things in his work! Henry is based inNewcastle and also covers the North East. His website is at www.henryaarvoldphotography.com/pages/home/

VENUES: For a list of other venues please see my Wedding and About Us pages.

The Alnwick Garden - One of the most unique and beautiful places in which to get married, and for those who prefer a modern twist rather than a Castle or Mansion it is up there with the best of them. Mariza and her team do everything possible to make your Wedding day as personal and special as you have dreamt.

Auckland Castle - Close to my heart, this venue has only one mission, and that is to make your dream come true. As seen on 'Don't Tell the Bride' it is one of those places which visually knocks you out! Combine with that a level of service which outshines some of the very best hotels, and add an attitude and commitment to excellence by everyone who works there, and this venue simply shines out.

Durham Castle - An ancient and grand venue in a superb location - with good food and a great staff! Tim keeps everything running perfectly and the sheer majesty of this venue puts it right up there with the best!

Wedding Planners can be a dream come true or a supplier's worst nightmare. I'm delighted to say the following are most definitely the former!! A pleasure to work with, their aim is to give the Client exactly what they want!

North East Wedding Planners can alleviate the stresses, budget concerns and time pressures associated with planning such a special event. They work on your behalf to provide design inspiration, locate your dream venue, source exceptional suppliers and manage your preparations, ensuring that your wedding day is planned to perfection. North East Wedding Planners can be involved at any stage of your planning, so whether you are just starting out or have reached a point where you require some extra assistance pulling everything together. Donna and the team are professional, approachable and most importantly affordable, contact them directly to arrange your first appointment free t. 0191 3882387 or info@newp.co.uk. To view their services in detail visit www.newp.co.uk

Cakes 4 U - Edwina & Audrey have over 20 years experience, and this shows in their magnificent creations. From an elegant heart to a full Magical Kingdom Castle their cakes have a wow factor! Oh yes, they taste pretty scrummy too! They also supply everything you need for cake decorating yourself! The Ladies are currently building a website, which I will link to as soon as it goes live. In the meantime they are in Horden opposite The Bell on Sunderland Road, and their phone number is 0191 518 3650. They are jolly friendly too, and their valuable advice costs........ nothing!

Chocolate Surprise - Joanne Ryan not only provides the scrummiest dips for her yummy belgian chocolate, but is one of the friendliest and most helpful people you could ever meet! She is a total perfectionist and it shows in both the taste of the food and the presentation of her lovely fountain with its beautifully lit surround! Phone Joanne on 01429 235 712 or e-mail her at joanne.ryan888@ntlworld.com

Mike Driver - Magician Extraordinaire and a member of the IBM British ring, Mike performs a wide range of World Class Close-Up Magic effects - with cards, coins, rings, sponge balls, cups and fire. He is sure to add interest and intrigue to your event! Mike can be contacted on 01642 711390 or his e-mail is mike@magicalmysteryman.com

Pure 2 Posh - Top quality Chair Covers, including Sash, delivery, fitting and collection. Based in Durham at Claypath, Kerry can be contacted on 0191 384 8038

G.W. Holmes & Son - Visit www.yourweddingcar.com or phone Graham or Michelle on 01388 834420 to enquire about their incredible range of magnificent vintage and classic wedding cars, all in pristine condition and looking fantastic! Style and Elegance, personified!

Elite Limo Hire - To hire a hugely impressive and luxurious limo with CRB checked Driver, get in touch with Marco on 0191 247 3613 or click to www.elitelimohire.co.uk for photos of this superlative, modern and beautifully presented vehicle, perfect for hen nights and proms as well as your Wedding.

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