Bridal Boutique – Domi Says Relax

Well, after a second consecutive weekend of epic double weddings to photograph, editing to do, a blog to write, my own wedding to make happen and a future husband to teach how to use an ironing board my thoughts this week have turned to the rather alien subject of relaxation. Weddings are, it would seem, really quite stressful (who knew!) and the last thing you want on the happiest day of your life is to be stressed out of your mind! So with that in mind I’ve been checking out some of the best places to go to get a bit of a pre-wedding pampering to be chilled, ache-free and looking your best for the big day. Well, I say checking them out, despite my least subtle hints Matt seemed a little reluctant to open his wallet and send me to any of them (how unusual), so these are the places that for one reason or another most appealed. But if anyone from the spa is reading this and would like a more in depth review… no? … no takers? Ah well, it was worth a shot! Let’s get down to business.

Espa at the Gleneagles Hotel, deep in the heart of the Scottish Countryside is undoubtedly one of the UK’s most luxurious Spas. The 5 Star Hotel itself is recognised as one of the finest in the world… in fact when world leaders met for the G8 summit a few years back (yes the Live8) year, Gleneagles was their hotel of choice. Set in an 850 acre private resort the incredible treatments they have on offer are complimented perfectly by the tranquility of the surroundings. I’ve never been to the hotel myself but Matt has been there on several occasions and assures me it’s absolutely beautiful. Of course luxury doesn’t come cheap, but if you’re looking for a relaxing trip for both bride and groom you could treat each other to a special night at the hotel and a spa for you and a round of golf on a PGA course for £340 including breakfast, or go for a day package with a gourmet 2 course lunch and various treatments for around £145.

Covent Garden’s Sanctuary Spa is ladies only and has become perhaps one of the most iconic spas around with it’s products now sold across the country. With it’s famous atrium pool and Koi Carp Lounge it really is a sanctuary for women to get away and allow themselves a bit of pampering ready for the big day! They offer a range of day spa packages at varied price ranges: Their top priced “Ultimate Sanctuary Escape” comes in at a hefty £275 but includes full use of all of the facilities, a two-couse lunch, afternoon tea, a £20 voucher to spend on their products, one 55 minute treatment and two 25 minute treatments of your choice. If that’s just a little bit too pricey for you then £80 will get you half a day with full use of the facilities and a 25 minute treatment of your choice (price exclusive to weekdays).

Moving into the middle of the country now (and a little bit closer to home for me!) Sessions Spa in the beautiful historic town of Beverley, Yorkshire, is one of my personal favourites. Another Spa with highly respected professional products to its name, Sessions is both a luxury Spa and beauty centre, offering you the chance to relax and get your bridal look sorted out all in the same place! Again a range of spa packages are on offer but in preparation for your wedding the 5hr 30 minute “Sessions De-stress Day” sounds just the ticket to me! At £205 we’re still looking at a luxury product here, but for your money you can start your day in the steam room, move on to a two-course lunch (perhaps even dining at the exclusive Chef’s table!) then receive a full holistic total body care aromatherapy treatment. Once thoroughly relaxed you can choose either a manicure or pedicure before moving to the hair spa for a professional blow dry… sounds good to me!

Moving on to Wales now with the St Brides Spa Hotel, Saundersfoot.  This waterside spa hotel has spectacular panoramic views and the most amazing looking heated infinity pool right onto the water itself! Perhaps unsurprisingly St Brides aims to take advantage of it’s seaside location and offers amongst other things a variety of marine-based treatments. Their £180 “Drifting Tides” package includes A marine body scrub, thermal bathing, full body massage, a two course light lunch, manicure, pedicure and mini skin specific facial. If you really like it you can even get married there!

If going somewhere to get a spa treatment already sounds too much like hard work then why not bring the treatments to you?! There are mobile spas operating across the UK with all manner of packages, and many will offer specific bridal packages to visit you on the wedding day itself including an hours massage and bridal hair and makeup to get you relaxed and ready for your big day. Click on this link to find some of the best mobile spas in your area.

So there’s my top finds and I feel more relaxed just thinking about it! No Matt, not relaxed enough to forgo the actual treatment! Come on, let’s give that credit card of yours another hammering!

You’re suddenly looking a little stressed there Matt… don’t worry, I have just the five solutions!

Relax!