As you all know I create art inspired, unique wedding cakes from my Sheffield base. However, the wedding industry can sometimes get a lot of bad press. People lambast it for being too expensive, or else think that everyone working in weddings thrives on pink fluff, rose petals and unicorns. To my mind, neither of these things are true. I’ve found this industry to be full of driven, inspiring, creative people who are really passionate about what they do. Our business may be in confetti-strewn, happy, smiley events, but damn it we’ve got grit!
So, today I wanted to give a shout out to some of the suppliers in my neck of the woods who are doing amazing things. If you’re planning your wedding in Sheffield, Manchester or the surrounding areas and are on the lookout for some missing pieces to bring the day to life, check out five of my favourites here - you might just see something that floats your boat.
THE URBAN WEDDING COMPANY - PLANNING AND STYLING
Zoey and Michelle exploded onto the scene in Manchester with their new venture just last month, and they’re already making a big splash. This experienced wedding planning and styling duo bring both the logistical wizardry and design and styling skills to the table, promising you a modern, edgy, urban cool wedding that’s sure to blow your guests away. These two ladies are just lovely - talented, professional and always up for a giggle. I think The Urban Wedding Company is going to do big things for the wedding scene in the North West and can’t wait to see what these girls have up their sleeves.
SWALLOWS AND DAMSONS - FLOWERS
Sheffield based florist Anna creates stunning and unique bouquets and installations that just take my breath away. Putting a focus on you and your story, Anna builds sculptural, wild bouquets with real artistic flair. She has a degree in fine art, and I think this really comes through in her work. The Swallows and Damsons shop in Sheffield is well worth a visit, even if you’re not getting married! It’s a gorgeously eclectic and stylish space, and you can’t help but leave with a smile on your face (and maybe some cheeky ranunculus in your basket).
BRAMBLESKY - SIGNAGE
If your wedding decor needs a gorgeous boost, then Kate at Bramblesky is the answer. She creates personalised signage and laser cut wording from reclaimed timber. Each piece is made bespoke, and meant to be kept and cherished. You can be safe in the knowledge that no-one else has a piece like yours - these aren’t generic signs for hire, they’re hand-painted to reflect you and your day. Will you go for your names? A love quote? A welcome sign? How about a totally unique wooden guest book for your loved ones to sign? (I bloody love this idea!)
VINTROBAR - BAR
If you read my January blog, you’ll know I enjoy a good tipple. Vintrobar offers an amazing selection of artisan gins and incredible cocktails, all served out of a seriously cool converted horsebox! This Sheffield based mobile bar can travel and set up at your wedding no matter what sort of venue you’ve chosen - they bring the party to you. Mine’s a margarita guys, thanks!
PURPLE CLOUD OF FUNK - MUSIC
I cannot recommend this five-piece band highly enough. These guys have SUCH charisma, and guarantee to play a mix of total classics and hidden gems that will have all your guests punching the air and shouting ‘I LOVE THIS SONG’ before hitting the dancefloor. Hard. They are definitely my go-to party band!
Go ahead and give all of these talented wedding suppliers a look, and remember that you don’t have to look too far past your front door to find some amazingly creative people. Sheffield, Manchester and the surrounding areas really are chock full of wedding industry superstars, so give some local businesses your support - you’ll have us happy dancing all over the place! And of course, if you need a wedding cake that’s all about contemporary cool, you know where to come!
Image credits:
1. Urban Cakehouse
2. Steve Grogan
3. Maytree Photography
4. Via Bramblesky on Etsy
5. Via Vintrobar
6. Ian Wilson via Purple Cloud of Funk