Britannia Hotel Manchester | Just Add Ginger

Image: c/o Britannia Hotels

You can be guaranteed that if ever someone suggests meeting up for drinks. or something to eat, I am going to be there. A social butterfly and lover of a good chin-wag, I just love any excuse to catch up with my friends, and people that generally make me smile and feel good. 

But when I was invited to go for a little bit of a night out in Manchester recently, I was just a little bit apprehensive. The last possible train I would have been able to get was just so early, but I didn't want to be travelling back home alone. I needed to find somewhere to stay. And fast. 

Not holding out any hope, I typed a search in to the internet the night before, and Britannia Hotels popped up. Intrigued, I clicked the link. I used to pass the Britannia Hotel Manchester all the time. With it's grand exterior, and central location, I always thought it was really expensive. So imagine my delight when I caught a glimpse of a room available with a rate of just under £50 for the night! I was elated. It meant that Ryan (who also was going out) and I could stay over in the city and not have to adhere to a curfew in line with the trains. Okay, so the room was quite basic-sounding, but for a place that's just to rest your head, in the city centre, and close to the train station, what more do you need? 

Jumping off the tram at Piccadilly Gardens, the hotel was clearly visible, and just a hop, skip and jump away. Checking in was as easy as pie, and the staff were incredibly friendly. When the lovely staff member who served me gave me the news I had been upgraded to a better room, I was so happy. With the room we booked being interior (no window,) and the weather outside being uncharacteristically warm, I relished the thought of having some fresh air circulating.

Image: c/o Britannia Hotels

Image: c/o Britannia Hotels

The hotel interior itself was amazing. Beautifully decorated walls and twinkling chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, and the most phenomenal staircase I think I've ever seen. It was quirky, utterly beautiful, and really appealed to my taste. 

I'm not going to lie. It did take me a while to figure out how to use the key-card to our room (in the end I had to ask a fellow guest to help - turned out I'd had the card upside down,) but once I stepped in to the room my jaw dropped.

Image: c/o Britannia Hotels

It was amazing. A big four-poster bed was the centrepiece, covered in crisp white sheets, and with two complementary robes and sets of slippers waiting for us to use. The wardrobes were so spacious, with a massive mirror exterior, which I commandeered for at least fifteen minutes whilst taking selfies, and to the farthest end of the room, a small set of steps leading up to a higher level with two chairs, tea and coffee making facilities, and a television. The bathroom was a fabulous size, with a big sink area, bath and shower combo, and a bidet! 

It was so lovely coming back from our nights out and sleeping in our room. The room was incredibly comfortable, and it was such a bonus having the window because it was really quite warm that evening. In the morning, we had a cup of tea, and got ready at our leisure. Check out was at 11am, and both being early-risers, we had all the time in the world to pack up. We could have had breakfast at the hotel, but we wanted to head out and enjoy the sunshine before finding something to eat. 

It was with a slightly sad faces that we left our room to check-out. Walking through the carpeted corridors, it was another chance to appreciate the décor of the hotel, which really is so grand, and very much in keeping with the period qualities of the building. 

Leaving our luggage at the hotel, Ryan and I gave each other a look, and reassured ourselves we would be back. We were so impressed with the Britannia, and true to our word, have already booked another overnight stay for the summer. 

Whether it's for a weekend away, business trip, or just because, I'd definitely recommend taking a look at the Britannia Hotel Manchester. With quirk, charm, and really great customer service, I can see our stays being a recurrence for the foreseeable future.  

For more information, and further details about Britannia Hotels, click here. 

Post-Wedding Q&A | Just Add Ginger

Image: Keyhole Studios

When I saw you I fell in love, and you smiled because you knew

- William Shakespeare.

Just before the wedding, Ryan and I decided to do a Pre-Wedding Q&A. Not only did we think this might be insightful for anyone who is going through the wedding planning process too, but in years to come, we can look back on our answers and remember just how we were thinking on the lead up to the Big Day. 

Now that we have been married for just over a month, we wanted to do a Post-Wedding Q&A to take some time and reflect on our thoughts about the wedding day, how it went, and if there is anything we would change.

What were you most nervous about before the ceremony?

J: Saying my vows. Ryan really wanted us to write our own and I was terrified. I was so scared that I was just going to burst in to tears, start blubbering, nobody was going to hear me, and that I'd look a total mess! 

R: I didn't think I was nervous until it came to putting the rings on and my hand was shaking like a sh*tting dog. After that it was only just my speech. I felt really nervous as both the MOB's (Mother of the Bride) and MOH's (Maid of Honour) speeches were excellent and I hadn't even written one! 

What was the best part of the day? 

J: The ceremony was fantastic. Marrying Ryan was such an amazing feeling. Throughout the day it was really emotive catching each other's eye and knowing that this was going to be such a beautiful adventure. 

R: Marrying Jackie of course. 

Did any hiccups happen? 

J: If they did I didn't know about them. 

R: I forgot to write my speech, but luckily enough I am good at ad-libbing. Also some of the tables didn't have the right number of settings but I was there early enough to get them sorted. 

Was there anything you would change? 

J: Not a thing. Everything was so beautiful, and just so magical. 

R: Maybe spending less time doing the more posed photos and more time enjoying the party. All our photos are fantastic but the best ones are the more candid. 

What's one piece of advice you would give to a couple on their Big Day? 

J: Enjoy every minute. The day goes so quickly that no sooner are you in the ceremony, the day is coming to an end. And don't sweat the small stuff. It really isn't worth the stress when there is so much excitement in the air. 

R: Enjoy the day and make sure you take time to make special memories with just you and your partner. 

Graze Box - A Serial Snacker's Solution? | Just Add Ginger

Graze Box has been something that has been on my Foodie radar for quite a while. I think I am what you might call a 'serial snacker,' so the concept of receiving a little box full of bite size delights really appealed to me. But for some reason, I'd never really made the commitment. 

Until we came back from our mini-moon. Then everything was different. After a week of cheeky afternoon beers, loads of cheese, cured meats and cocktails, it was time to make a food adjustment, and cut out (or at least try to) as much gourmet food at possible. Leading up to the wedding it had been a whirlwind of pre-wedding celebrations, meals and meet ups, and my diet just wasn't the best. Something had to change - and it was time to try something to keep my snacking to a minimum. 

I have to say I really enjoyed the sign-up process for Graze Box. The hard part was trying to decide just which box to choose. With over twenty to choose from, this was no easy feat. Settling for the Variety Box, and selecting how frequently I wanted my subscription box to arrive, it was then time to rate my snacks. There was something very satisfying about scrolling down a list of snacks and selecting which ones sounded the best. With Graze Box, there is also an option to eliminate snacks that contain things you are allergic to, really don't like, or don't fit in with your dietary requirements, so there was no chance any celery, radish or artificial cherry would be popping up anywhere - Phew! 

It was with baited breath I sat and waited for the first box to arrive. I was just so excited to open it up, see what was inside, and find out if it would help me with my incurable snacking in any way. As soon as I heard the plop of the box through my letterbox, I knew I just had to take a peek inside. The fact that Graze Box fits through your letterbox is a fabulous selling point on it's own. There's no worry about it being sent to the sorting office, being left with a neighbour who is never in, or having to wait in for it to arrive. As soon as you get home from work or a day out, it will be there waiting for you. And I think that's marvellous.

Just taking a look inside the box I instantly knew which snack packs I was going to enjoy the most. The Cookies & Cream immediately sang to my sweet-toothy, whilst the herby Bread Basket appealed to my savoury side. So naturally, these were the boxes I tried out first.

My instincts were right. I definitely enjoyed these two boxes the most. Both were absolutely jam-packed full of flavour, and absolutely delicious. The perfect mid-afternoon snacks, and both really appealing to my love of picking at food. This is going to be a bit controversial, but I think I actually preferred the Cookies & Cream snack pack to eating an actual chocolate bar, mainly because the experience lasted longer. There was still a big hit of chocolate from the chocolate buttons, mini cocoa cookies and cocoa fudge, but the sunflower seeds added something much more interesting.

The flapjack was a surprising delight. Airing on the side of caution, I shared this one with Ryan, and waited for him to try a little bit first before I took a bite. A squishy, perfectly cooked piece of flapjack greeted me and dispelled any apprehension of receiving a sweet treat that was too dry and chewy. As reluctant I was after that to share, Ryan and I split all the flapjack fingers and had them as a pudding one day after tea.

The only box I really was not sold on was the bountiful berries. The cranberries, green raisins and blueberries contained therein were lovely, don't get me wrong, but it was the goldenberries that I didn't get along with. They added a sharp sort of tang to the selection that just seemed out of place for me. I suppose they might be an acquired taste, but I really was not a fan. I finished off the pack, but left these to one side. One taste was enough for me.

So? Do I think Graze Box will help stop my serial snacking? Yes! And I've already seen quite a difference. In conjunction with eating more satisfying main meals (if you follow me on Twitter you will know how obsessed I am with avocado,) and a more nutritious flexitarian diet all-round, I don't find myself feeling the need to have a cheeky chocolate chomp at all. It was my time of the month last week, and do you know how many times I reached for the chocolate? Once. Once! That's normally unheard of for me. By having little boxes of sweet and savoury treats to snack on, I didn't find the need to reach for things that are not so good for me, not knowing when to stop. It's helped so far, and I really hope it continues to help.

My Graze Box comes in at £3.99 a week, which I don't think is bad at all. If I'm finding the frequency is too much, I can always manage the timing of my boxes' arrival and receive them bi-weekly instead. And if we go on holiday, I can snooze my box too. I really do love the flexibility that comes with this subscription, and having received my second box, and seen the snack selection I've received this time, I think I've made a really good choice!

If you have not subscribed to Graze Box before, and you would like to give it a go, click the link below:

http://www.graze.com/uk/p/WTC5P4X4U

For more information about Graze Box, including the different boxes you can receive, click here

Are you a serial snacker too? What do you do to help?

Eat Your Crust* | Just Add Ginger

Image Credit: Crust Liverpool

I am always very much an advocate for supporting local and independent businesses. So when I was contacted and given the opportunity to head down to Crust on Bold Street in Liverpool, I of course jumped at the chance.

Ryan in tow, we headed in to Liverpool one Friday night to find out what Crust was all about. It was still relatively early when we arrived, but the restaurant was already full, with a buzzing atmosphere around us, and a delicious smell in the air. As we took our seats, I started to get the feeling that we were in for a treat.

Perusing over the menu, I couldn't help but take a peek at the décor. A mixture of modern elements and rustic, Italian-inspired touches (including a moped,) Crust's interior design really appealed to me. Often, pizza places don't really feel like restaurants, but this one did. It's difficult to explain, but there was something about Crust that felt a little more exclusive. 

I'd already checked out the menu earlier in the day, so instantly knew what food I was going to order. So whilst Ryan made his choice, I perused the drinks menu and was really pleased to see just how many local beers there were on offer - beers, as I was told by Ryan - are often difficult to find in restaurants. Again, it was great to see fellow local businesses being supported. As impressed as I was, Ryan just had to sample one, and added a Toxteth IPA to my drinks order of a Rossini.

Deciding we just had to sample a starter, orders for the Calamari and Bresaola (cured beef fillet) were placed, with the intention that we would share the dishes. Well, that plan completely failed. Aside from a small bite of each other's food, we were so wrapped up in enjoying our food that all hopes of sampling the dishes equally went out the window. The calamari I ordered was crisp, with the pepper accompaniments a welcome complement to the starter. The squid was a little overcooked, but in all honesty it was only ever so slight that this didn't bother me at all, and I really enjoyed eating, alternating and combining the garlic mayo and spicy salsa dips to create the perfect balance of flavour.

Ryan's cured beef was outstanding. All the elements of the dish worked really well together, with the sweetness of the tomato and balsamic balancing beautifully with the umami flavour of the beef. The parmezan and rocket added a punchy, peppery hit that worked well and was very welcome indeed.

Having devoured our starters, it was time for the main event. Adhering to our newly adopted flexitarian diet, I ordered the classic Margherita, but with a twist. Instead of a normal, regular crust, I opted for the Black Dough. The concept had me really intrigued, and as soon as I spotted it on the menu, I knew I had to give it a try. Ryan went for the Straccetti, a pizza which, can you believe, has sliced fillet mignon on it! Sufficed to say that Ryan was so excited to see that, and placed his order barely pausing for breath, alongside a Caprese salad for us to share. Time for more drinks too, we chose to sample the cocktails, going for a Pornstar Martini and Whisky In The Jar (I'll let you guess who ordered which!)

Now I do have a little bit of a confession. Pizza is not naturally something I order often. I can find the bases a bit too bready, and as someone who suffers from indigestion, especially after eating bread, I normally have to give up half way through. Well not with this pizza. Second to none this was the most delicious pizza I have had, and it was honestly a joy to eat. And it was the crust that made it extra special. The black dough had a charred almost smoky quality that I absolutely loved! The base was just the right thickness for me, and the toppings creamy, and delicately balanced. 

And Ryan was just as impressed with his pizza. Asking him for feedback, there was nothing he could really critique. It was all delicious, with bucket loads of steak, and toppings that really worked well together. Bite after bite we barely spoke to each other, and again, whereas we'd normally share our food so we can have a sample, I think I got one tiny mouthful of steak, and Ryan received a nibble of one of my slices. When we don't want to share, it's a very, very good sign.

A fan of Tobasco with pizza, Ryan did ask if Crust had any, and was a little disappointed when the answer was "No." However, to quote his words, what he got instead was "a million times superior! The tomato/chilli ketchup is amazing!" So, spice fans, if you want an additional kick make sure you give that a try! 

After all that food, you would think that we were done, wouldn't you? No! Looking over the menu earlier that day, I was really intrigued by the Ravioli Chocolat. I couldn't leave without giving that a try! And Ryan, not wanting to be left out, ordered the BirraMisu. 

The desserts were the perfect way to finish off the meal. Truth be told, Ryan's BirraMisu was a little too punchy for me, but he, an avid beer drinker, really enjoyed the novel concept, and thought it was delicious. From the creamy consistency to the presentation in the small dimple jug, it was a winner in his books.

And my chocolate ravioli? There's only one word to describe that dish - delicious. The pieces were not too big, and my goodness were they jam-packed with gooey chocolate goodness! It was truly a chocolate-lover's dream dish, and aside from the half piece I begrudgingly gave to Ryan, I polished off every mouthful in record time.

Going to Crust has really changed my perceptions on pizza and has turned me into a convert. Offering a wide selection of toppings and dough types, the restaurant has something that caters for all taste buds. And what's great is that if you don't feel like pizza, there are other options available, including pasta, grills, and salads. The atmosphere was electric with excitement, the staff friendly and approachable, and everyone looked really happy, enjoying their food with animation. We can't wait to go back, and have already picked out what we want to try next!

For more information about Crust, and to take a look at their mouth-watering menu, click here.

*I was very kindly invited down to Crust for a complimentary meal in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, 100% honest, and guided by my experience and taste buds. 

Dinner at Brookhouse | Just Add Ginger

As soon as we made our first visit to Brookhouse last year, we instantly knew we had to return. Set in the picturesque, chocolate box village of Clapham in Yorkshire, the location is idyllic and one of those places that completely captures your heart. We had the most fantastic stay at Brookhouse last time, so the minute I could, I booked Ryan and I on a little mini-moon to whisk ourselves away on straight after the wedding.

What I thought was a fantastic touch the last time we stayed, was the Brookhouse does offer dinner several nights of the week. Perfect for if you have been out all day and just want to head back home in the evening and relax. Taking advantage of this previously, this time we dined in two nights out of our four night stay.

Food at Brookhouse is really reasonably priced, with several choices of all three courses on offer, plus a wine and drinks menu if you fancy a cheeky tipple to accompany your food. With quite a lot of things to choose from, selecting what to have was quite difficult. But because we were to be dining in on more than one occasion, I somehow managed to narrow my choices down, and split these up across two evenings.

I started out with the pork belly and black pudding. Black pudding is one of my biggest weaknesses, so as soon as I spot it on a menu, I'm in there! On this night, the pork belly cut was not available, with a substitute of cheek in its place. This did not phase me at all, and readily awaited my order. 

Juicy, succulent, and melt-in-the-mouth, my knife barely caressed the pork cheek before it fell apart. With the black pudding accompaniment the elements were a match made in heaven, with the apple, rhubarb and ginger chutney adding a subtly sweet element. The salad that came with the starter was delicious too, but I found myself gravitating more towards the meat, and then eating this separately. The dish size was perfect for a starter. Neither too small, or too overwhelming, it glided down and was a beautiful way to start our meal. (I loved this starter so much I ended up ordering it on both nights!)

After having a few sips from my glass of red, our main courses were placed in front of us. Opting for the steak, it came out perfectly cooked, cosily nestled under a layer of bacon, onion rings and tomatoes and served with boiled potatoes, a potato fondant, and a side of vegetables. Like with the pork, the meat was fabulously juicy, and I only needed a little help to cut it. The potato fondant was a lovely touch - crisp and crunchy on the outside, and fluffy in the middle. I wish I had got a better photo - mine doesn't do the dish justice - but I was itching to get eating! 

What would a romantic mini-moon dinner be without dessert? This was the only dish that from the get-go I knew I wanted to eat on both nights. Being the chocoholic that I am, the hot chocolate brownie ticked all the boxes. The sponge was soft, and really chocolatey, with the orange sauce acting as a zingy, sweet accompaniment that was so warming and comforting. With a choice of ice cream or cream to go with the dessert, I opted for ice cream, which, once I'd gobbled up the brownie, was lovely to eat with the remainder of the sauce. 

The only thing I would have wanted to change about eating at Brookhouse is that I wish we could have eaten there every night. But that's me just being really greedy! Host Alan does all the cooking, hosting, and running of Brookhouse so definitely deserves the break. Plus having only a few days of dining makes the experience that more special. 

Thinking of visiting Yorkshire? Definitely check out the Brookhouse. It's an amazing place to stay, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the food....oh my goodness - it is simply delicious! 

25 Food Question Tag | Just Add Ginger

It's no secret that I absolutely adore my food. I love cooking it. I love eating it. I love going out to restaurants to sample it. Put a plate of food in front of me, and I am one happy girl. Last week when we were away, I put on 5lbs....5lbs! Yes, as soon as the wedding dress came off, the bridal diet was well and truly over!

I found the 25 Food Questions Tag whilst searching online and knew I just had to give it a go. If you are as passionate about food as I am, then TAG you're it....it's your turn to have a go next!

1. What's your favourite breakfast?

I go through phases, but at the moment it would either be chocolate porridge, banana and yoghurt, or smashed avocado on toast. I've just discovered avocado, and am literally obsessed!

2. How do you drink your coffee?

With a splash of milk. I used to be one for having all the syrups, but now I like keeping it simple.

3. What's on your favourite sandwich?

Hmmm...that's a tough one. I have a love/hate relationship with bread, and don't really eat a lot of sandwiches any more. But if I had to pick something it would be mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, chopped tomatoes and pesto.

4. Soup or Salad? 

Soup. There's nothing like a big hearty bowl of soup on a cold day or to have as the ultimate comfort food. Spiced parsnip is my favourite!

5. What's your favourite cookbook? 

I'm a really big Jamie Oliver fan. And his Ministry Of Food cookbook is brilliant. I know how to cook several dishes in there by heart and they always hit the spot.

6. No more sweets or no more hearty food? 

Do I really have to choose? Really? Oh gosh this is such a tough decision. I guess if "sweets" means desserts then I'd have to get rid of them. I love my puddings, but nothing beats big dishes of hearty, home-cooked food.

7. What's your favourite cuisine (country?) 

Italian or Indian. It's a tough call. I love them both.

8. What's your favourite food movie? 

Chocolat....Johnny Depp and chocolate. Is there any better a combination?

9. What's your most guilty pleasure? 

There's a dessert at our favourite restaurant that I just love. Every time we go there I order it, even if I'm full. And I once ate two in one sitting. At home though it's a big mug of hot chocolate...delicious!

10. What's your greatest inspiration source? 

Watching Masterchef. I watch it every year and after it's finished that's when my passion for food goes in to overdrive. Watching Ryan cook is fascinating too. He has such a palette and isn't afraid to try anything. I really wish I was more like that.

11. Cooking at home or going out to dinner? 

A bit of both. Home-cooked food is amazing, but going out is such a treat, and something I really look forward to.

12. High end or low profile? 

If this is in terms of restaurants I like to sample both. I love supporting local businesses, so visit both family-style, or one off restaurants and high flyers. I learn a lot from both and always appreciate the food. 

13. What's your favourite restaurant? 

Yukti. Every time.

14. I do my grocery shopping at...? 

Tesco mainly, with a few visits to Asda every so often.

15. The tastiest food I've ever eaten was...? 

Again, this is a really difficult question, and one that's so hard to answer. I can't say there has been one dish that has surpassed all others, but I was blown away by a sea bass dish I had at Bill's last weekend. It was divine!

16. What's your favourite cocktail? 

Basil Grande. They are quite difficult to come by so as soon as I spot one on a cocktail menu I order it.

17. Coffee with George Clooney or Heston Blumenthal? 

Has to be Heston - I'd love to pick his brain and learn more about him as a chef. I think he's fantastic.

18. What should not be missing in your kitchen? 

Herbs and spices. I'm not the most confident at experimenting but I love adding things to make dishes extra tasty.

19. What's your favourite snack? 

Depending on how I feel, either some cheeky chocolate biscuits, crisps, or cheese and crackers.

20. What's on your pizza? 

Same as my sandwich - mozzarella, pesto, basil and tomato.

21. What food do you really dislike? 

There are a few. I really can't stand celery, radishes, marzipan, cherry liquor, and anything pickled!

22. What's your favourite food blog? 

She doesn't write exclusively about food, but I do like watching Niomi Smart's food videos on YouTube. Everything looks so delicious and colourful.

23. What's the weirdest thing you've ever eaten? 

Sheep testicle. I didn't realise what it was, and I really thought it was yummy. 

24. What's on your food bucket list? 

I'd love to go to a really high end restaurant to eat. There's no food item on my bucket list really. I love being curious and discovering things as I go.

25. I couldn't live without...? 

Chocolate. Or cheese. Both hold a pretty big place in my heart,

Fancy having a go at this tag? Leave your links or answers in the comments!

Bet you're feeling hungry now, aren't ya? 

KEEP CALM. It's Your Wedding Day | Just Add Ginger

It's no secret - things can get really stressful on the lead up to your wedding day. As somewhat of a perfectionist, I knew that without enough time to prepare, I could easily succumb to pressure and turn in to a raging, quivering, quaking Bridezilla (with a capital 'b' for extra ferociousness!) 

But by putting some easy steps in to practice, come the wedding day (aside from a fussing, excitable Mama Ginger,) everything ran smoothly, and I was calm and relaxed right up until I put on my wedding dress. So for all my fellow fretting Brides, here are some of my top tips for keeping calm on your wedding day. 

You Can Never Be Too Organised

It's true. And it all started from the minute the invitations went out. Planning in advance, we stated our guests needed to be seated well ahead of time. This ensured there were no stragglers, and that everything (and everybody) was in place before I arrived for the ceremony. 

Okay, so this is going to sound very "Monica Gellar" of me, but on the day, to be absolutely sure everybody knew what they were doing and when, I wrote my bridesmaids an itinerary with approximate timings for everything, and a broken down list of what their duties were and when so that they were always ready should I need to call on them. All big tasks (speeches, photographer's aide) were delegated way ahead of time, so that the girls knew what specific jobs they had should they be needed. At the bottom of their itinerary were the numbers of my husband-to-be, my mum, and the venue so that if there were any questions problems, or queries, they could be contacted and I could be left to concentrate on keeping calm.

And the over-enthusiastic planning didn't stop there. Together with Ryan we sat down and divided all that was needed to dress the venue into envelopes, individually labelled and coordinated. There were table diagrams, check-lists and labels galore. I even wrote him a list for the wedding morning of what he needed to do at the venue so that nothing would be forgotten. 

It all may seem a little OTT, but it's always best to be as prepared as you can be. You never know when those pre-wedding jitters are going to kick in. Ryan was the epitome of calm right up to the wedding morning, and then he was a ball of nerves. Having these plans in place meant that even though he was stressing out, nothing got forgotten.

Let Yourself Breathe 

It's okay to feel anxious. To get stressed out. To feel those nerves. It's a bride's prerogative. All that time planning for your big day, making it all as perfect as you can, and then before you know it...BOOM, here it is! And you want it to be amazing.

If you're feeling wound up as you get ready for the wedding, it's alright to slip away and just have some moments to yourself. Pick somewhere quiet, with no noise, and just give yourself a minute or two to gather your thoughts. I did this twice whilst everyone was getting ready Once to go through my vows one last time (I honestly was so scared I'd cock them up,) and the second time for a toilet break. I didn't make a big deal that I was feeling a little nervous. I took myself out of all hustle and bustle, gave myself some time, and when I was ready, I came back.

I have to hand it to our photographers and my bridesmaids that day. They really helped to keep my grounded. MG was getting very over-excitable just before I got dressed, and me, having been cool , calm and collected for the majority of the morning could feel tension begin to bubble up inside me. And when I get really nervous, it takes a lot of control to re-centre my thoughts. I shake. I shake uncontrollably. And in that situation, I knew I'd probably start to cry and that would have been a disaster....I HAD FALSIES ON PEOPLE!

That's where your bridal party is your biggest support system. MG left the room, distracted with another task, and accompanied by a bridesmaid, whilst I got dressed with my other two bridal party members. Our photographer was also great, sensing I was close to tears, and ensuring I was okay. Within minutes, the atmosphere was returned to a relative state of calm, and the situation averted.

Set The Mood 

Never underestimate the power of music on your wedding morning. As soon as it was a reasonable hour, I turned on Spotify, and hit play on my "Wedding Morning Playlist," which was essentially the exactly same playlist of songs we had had for the Hen Night. I knew that playing relaxing, calming melodies would just not work for me. I needed something that would get me up and dancing, singing, smiling, dancing round the apartment, and that would create a massive firework display of excitement. The last thing I wanted was to be shaking from start to finish of the preparation process, and turning up to the wedding in a big dishevelled mess!

Of course, choose music that works for you. If you like soothing sounds, spa tracks, motown, 90's pop, rock, hip-hop, or jazz, make yourself a collection of your favourite tunes to play that morning to act as background noise, entertainment, and to set the right mood for you as you get ready.

Remember To Eat

Sound so simply, doesn't it? But it's something that's really, really important. Because the fact of it is on your wedding day itself, you might not get to eat that much. I remember having a few spoonfuls of soup (I was scared of spilling it on my dress,) about half of my main (my dress was quite fitted and space was limited,) and only a little of my dessert. Canapés were lost on Ryan and I because we were having photographs taken, and by the time the evening reception came along, I just wanted to have my glasses of fizz and let my hair down. So food in the morning is so important. PG acted as our food delivery man, bring round a huge selection of pastries, juice, and chocolate milk, just in case I was too nervous to eat. There was fruit in the fridge from Friday night, and tea and coffee galore. Plenty for everyone and some to spare.

And it was breakfast that carried me through. Admittedly, it took me about an hour to eat it (I was here, there and everywhere,) but it filled that hole and stopped any nervous nausea. I understand you my not feel like eating as you're getting ready to go, but even if it's a juice, smoothie, fruit, or piece of toast, get something in your stomach so that you're not running on empty.

Remember What It's All About 

You might be worrying about what could go wrong. People might be flapping and fussing around you. But always remember what your wedding day is about - you and your other half. A celebration of the love you have. And ultimately, nothing else matters. Don't dwell on the ifs, buts or maybes about the ceremony, food, flowers, or reception, because when it comes down to it all, those things aren't so important. What is important is making the day memorable for the two of you, to see yourself off on the start of a brand new adventure.

I don't remember that much of the ins and outs of the day. What I do remember is walking down the aisle towards Ryan, and knowing that we are going to have the most wonderful, exciting life together.

Your wedding is one fabulous day. Your marriage is one fabulous lifetime. 

We Did It! | Just Add Ginger

Photo Credit: Wedding Guest

I'm sure that if you follow me on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook you will already know this, but I wanted to officially say this on the blog.... 

WE GOT MARRIED! 

Boyfriend and I tied the knot on 2nd April 2016, and I don't think I'm ever going to come down from this cloud. We whisked ourselves away on honeymoon almost straight away, heading for Yorkshire on the Monday and not coming home until the Sunday, and thinking about it all still makes me want to cry! 

I'm not going to go into too much detail of the day (there are just some things you want to keep private) and I'm not going to start filling my blog with wedding-related content, because I do understand it isn't appealing to everybody, but I just wanted to update you lovely lot, and just say thank you to everybody who sent across well-wishes for the day. It really meant so much to me reading all your kind tweets and comments on Twitter and Instagram - I was very touched! 

So now I'm officially a MRS (or Jackie O as I'm calling myself - just couldn't help it!) My new husband obviously cannot go as Boyfriend any more on JAG, and has kindly given it the okay for me to use his real name, Ryan. So from now on, if you see me refer to 'Ryan' in my posts, you'll know it's him, and not some randomer, or a companion we've got for Dave! 

There are a few wedding posts I want to upload relating to the day/honeymoon, but all of these will be uploaded on a Wednesday as a #WeddingWednesday featurette. And once we get our official photos through, I will of course be sharing a few of those, but I promise not to go overboard with too much wedding content. I know it's not everyone's cup of tea.

Thank you again for all your love, support and best wishes..It really does mean the world to us!

Stay EPIC | Just Add Ginger

Pretty much as soon as we had booked EPIC Apart Hotel as our wedding accommodation, and had our mini-tour, I couldn't wait to stay there. Throughout the booking process, and during the lead up to the wedding, the staff had been incredibly helpful, and really helped to kick-start the excitement as the festivities approached. 

We decided to go for an apartment rather than a hotel for a couple of reasons. The first being that an apartment would instantly be able to house all my bridal luggage. My dress and veil needed loads of space to hang, and the last thing I wanted was to be tripping over all my things. The second being that it meant hair and make up could come to us, set up, and beautify the bridal party in a sort of production line. Looking round EPIC the first time, I realised there was not only a lot of space, but also a lot of light, which would work perfectly for those getting pampered. And lastly, it meant I could spend the night before the wedding with my 'maids, all of us together in one big space. Something that was really important to me, as I knew those pre-wedding jitters surrounding saying my vows would hit me pretty hard. 

Walking in to our two bedroom apartment, I was completely blown away by how light and big and airy it felt. Tall ceilings, crisp white walls, and lots and lots of light. Immediately I took myself on a little tour, scoping out where would be best to hang my wedding dress and veil, then headed over to the sleek kitchenette to turn up the tunes on Spotify and wait for the girls. 

The tall ceilings and beautiful beams really worked to my favour, as we were able to hang my veil (which was cathedral length - go big or go home) on one of these in the back bedroom with only a minimal amount touching the floor. My wedding dress was hung on the front of one of the wardrobes, where it draped down with ease and with no chance of it creasing up again. 

What I really liked as well were the two bathrooms. The first, opposite the front door, contained a toilet, sink and shower/bath combo, which I knew I had to commandeer in the morning (I had my LUSH Golden Wonder packed in preparation for a good ol' wedding morning soak.) The second bathroom, which was closer to the back bedroom, had a toilet, sink, and one epic shower. Linking this bathroom to the main section of the apartment was what I affectionately called the "powder room" - a little area with a huge mirror, vanity counter, and stool - the perfect place for either hair or make up in the morning. 

Staying in EPIC was absolutely perfect that weekend. On the Friday evening, the girls and I drank fizz, played games, and partook in general merriment without being at risk of disturbing anyone. The two bedrooms ensured that we all got a good night's sleep, with me opting to take the first bedroom, just in case I got so nervous and there was no chance of getting any shut-eye. In the morning, we could all get ready without falling over each other. Hair and make up equally had enough room to operate, and when the photographer came, there was such gorgeous light pouring in from the huge windows that I know the photos are going to be stunning. It really was more than I could have ever hoped for. 

But it was the staff who really made it for us. Whether it was supplying us with extra tea and coffee so that we could make brews for everybody, ensuring that we had everything we needed to make us comfortable, coming out in the morning to wish me luck, re-vamping the room for me and the hubby to stay in on the Saturday night, to even helping arrange a little surprise for us when we came home from the reception. I felt very looked after, appreciated as a guest, and like any potential stress had instantly been taken away. 

If you are looking for the perfect place to stay during your wedding, hen party, or stag do, I cannot recommend EPIC more. It provides the comfort of home, with all the facilities you are looking for, and definitely takes the stress and struggles away of trying to negotiate the space you need to get ready on your Big Day or party.

And me? Would I stay at EPIC again? Oh yes! All I need now is an excuse....

For more information, head here: 

Apartment images c/o Epic Apart Hotel, who have kindly let me use these for my review.