Intensive Cold For Intensive Therapy

Lauren Welsh of Flawless Beauty is undertaking the journey of a lifetime to raise money for Aberdeen Royal Infirmary’s Intensive Therapy Unit. In April, Lauren (who hates the cold!), and partner Mark Donald, are driving a team of huskies 250km across the Arctic from Norway to Sweden. The journey starts in Tromso and then civilisation is left far behind until they, hopefully, end up in the world-famous Ice Hotel in Jukarssarvi. Lauren and Mark will spend their first night in a traditional Lavvo but from then on will have to erect their own tent, and also cook for themselves. They will also be required to help harness, feed and clean up after the huskies. Lauren says: “This will be a trip of a lifetime but we are doing it for one reason only and that is to raise money for the Cape ITU Fundraiser. All the money we raise goes straight to the charity for the hospital and the wonderful staff that work in the ITU.” Donations can be made via www.justgiving.com/Lauren-Welsh-Mark-Donald

Top Trio

Grampian wedding suppliers were once again well-represented in the Voted Outstanding Wedding Supplier (VOWS) awards. Avorio Bridal, who have won the award in two consecutive years, Nicholas Frost, Crafty Cards and Drumtochty Castle were all nominated in their respective categories. The three Grampian winners were Hudsons Catering in the Independent Catering category, Elite Promotions in the Music

Competition Winners

Caption competition winner is Victoria Christie who is getting married on 12 December 2011. The winning caption: “Excuse me sir, if you really are the Pink Panther, let me see your jewels to prove it”

The £500 cash prize was won by Paula Craig.

The bridesmaids’ dresses from Belmont Bridal were won by Amy Thomson.

New for You

For something a bit different, what about a spit roast to both feed and entertain your wedding guests? Professional butcher Paul Smith offers spit roasts suitable for large or small weddings; you can choose between a whole hog, a rack of lamb or beef, really whatever you want. Aristocars have added a third Buick to their range of classic cars so can easily cater for the whole wedding party.

Texan Text

Having the former editor of “Houston Brides” based in Aberdeen for 12 months was too good an opportunity to miss and Amber Bell was only too happy to write some of the features for GWD. Amber did eventually manage to change her spellchecker from the US English but see if you can spot the delightful Texan twang in the text!

Up-To-The-Minute

Belmont Bridal have moved to new premises at 43 Union Terrace. Image Fashion completed a total refurbishment in January 2010 and now looks as elegant and stylish as the fashions it stocks. Avorio Bridal now stocks a mother-of-the-bride and range. Avorio is also building new premises which will be complete later this year. McMullan Kilts have become the Hairy Sporran. Sandy Menzies designer jewellery is now available through McCalls. Lisa Stevenson of Aperture has been awarded her Photography Licentiate qualification from the Master of Photographers Association.