If you haven’t already purchased a copy of our latest edition, now is the time – click here -  as it really is one of the most spectacular issues to date AND our 10th anniversary limited edition publication.

Today we are truly whetting appetites as we present our latest shoot and some never-been-seen-before images from our editorial at Palais Namaskar in Morocco.

THE LOCATION:

Yves Saint Laurent fell in love with Marrakech instantly upon first visiting in 1966, and his name has ever since been synonymous with this city’s glittering uber-fashionable reputation.

Our exclusive photoshoot location takes us away from the bustling crowds and bejeweled souks of central Marrakech, to the five-star, award-winning resort of Palais Namaskar, situated between the desert and the Atlas mountains in the Marrakech Palmeraie – a mere 20 minutes’ drive from the city (and only 30 from the airport).

Formerly a private residence (not a bit jealous!), Palais Namaskar can only be described as an absolutely epic spa retreat, hotel and wedding venue.

Huge wooden gates reveal twelve acres of Balinese-inspired grounds, boasting golden-domed palaces and colonnaded walkways through shimmering pools. Palais Namaskar is home to 41 minimal and super-stylish suites and villas, all boasting an incredible level of technology and huge outdoor terraces. The resort boasts an on-site spa and two fabulous restaurants with food to match the inimitable surroundings. For weddings, it is the ultimate venue for couples from all corners of the globe.

Go see the beauty: www.palaisnamaskar.com

THE BRIEF

We wanted to play with textures and chose a selection of gowns to portray both the bohemian and the glamorous aspects of this multi-faceted location.

We stayed away from themes per se, and simply wanted mesmerising images with accents that gave a gentle nod to  their surroundings – the Awon Golding hat and turban did this perfectly.

 

THE GOWNS

We chose gowns for two of the North’s finest boutiques, Si Bridal in Newcastle, who house labels such as Noya by Riki Dalal, Riki Dalal Official and Milla Nova and Chloe Jane Bridalwear in Howden, Yorkshire, who present stunning labels such as Zavanna Bridal, Savin London and Hayley Paige.

HAIR, MAKEUP AND CREATIVE

The talents of Paris and London Fashion Week regular MUA Jo Leversuch kept this editorial super fresh with glowing skin and gentle highlighting of our models stunning features. Hair was curled and left to fall naturally to keep a soft undone look. Products used were by Sisley.

THE EDITOR SAYS

“Our job was easy for this shoot, the location really did do most of the talking, however the mesemerising use of light by talented photographer Sean Elliott and our models striking features and honed modelling talents literally set the pages on fire! Our heartfelt thanks to Fabrice at award-winning wedding styling and planning company Cocoon Events, who orchestrated the whole trip for us”

THE BELLE BRIDAL #DREAMTEAM

Photography by Sean Elliott, www.seanelliottphotography.co.uk

Model: @jolie.musique

Hair and MUA: Jo Leversuch, www.joleversuch.co.uk

Gowns: Chloe Jane Bridalwear, Howden and Si Bridal, Newcastle

Creative Direction: Karen Bell, Belle Bridal

Thanks to Cocoon Events, www.cocoon-events.com

Thanks to Dawson and Sanderson, Sunderland for arranging the complimentary flights.