Tag Archives: ideas

Plan a historical wedding

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Costumed Characters

This is undoubtedly the first thing to organise once you’ve settled on hiring a wedding venue. Costumed characters are actors that can instantly convince all of your guests that you are now stepping into the past. Whether you require a nobleman, a merchant or even a court jester, these brilliant additions to your wedding day will immerse your friends and family into the historical theme!

Lute Player

It wouldn’t be a historically themed wedding without some apt music for the occasion! With guests arriving at your wedding venue, why not have the sounds of a lute ringing out to all and sundry as everybody steps back in time. Perfect for those who would love an Elizabethan, Tudor or Renaissance wedding, the costumes are sure to impress you as well! Available as a solo performance or as part of a three-piece band, there’s nothing quite like it!

Singing Monks

The sound of a choir is quite unlike anything else in the entertainment world; the beauty of tens of voices coming together to form a beautiful melody is one that is completely unrivalled. There’s a reason that composers of these works were revered back in the day! Be they setting the mood before your wedding ceremony or perhaps featuring as background music during the drinks reception, Singing Monks will hugely enhance the authenticity of your historical wedding.

A Good Ol’ Dance

By hiring a symphony orchestra, you’ll be able to enjoy a more traditional dance than you’d see at many other weddings. We weren’t sure whether to class this under ‘symphony orchestra’ or not but ultimately, having a historical dance is one that everybody would enjoy! Even if you move on to more recent songs and instruments later in the evening, beginning with a traditional dance will no doubt delight everybody in attendance and would be quite the spectacle, especially in a historical setting!

Have a traditional wedding

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Book a harpist for the ceremony

There’s something beautiful about having a harpist play. When planning a wedding, the sound of a harp emanating through your venue is a truly gorgeous moment. The tinkling of the strings really is the perfect sound to accompany a walk down the aisle and when it comes to tradition, we don’t think there’s much better.

Book a string quartet for the drinks reception

When the vows have been spoken and guests have retired for a few drinks, a string quartet is a wonderful accompaniment to their surroundings. The bride and groom will be having their photos taken with the photographer and such a gap shouldn’t be an awkward situation. With the soothing sounds of a string quartet, this is a lovely opportunity to friends old and new to chat to one another on this special day.

Book a jazz band over dinner

The dinner! Many guests’ favourite moment of the day with food, drink and of course, the speeches! The bride and groom often walk from table to table during the lunch or dinner and we find that having some background music certainly enhances the atmosphere. Booking a jazz band is a great choice with top acts including Clints Jazz Band

Book a function band for the evening

Not only do they get the party started in style, they’re sure to fill your dance floor and ensure many a happy memory as the evening wears on. Able to learn a tune that has a sentimental attachment to the newlyweds or more than capable of rattling through the hits to ensure that your wedding guests will keep rockin’ all night long.

Book a DJ to finish the evening

Bands generally play 3 x 45 minute sets so if you’re wanting to dance and party for longer than three hours, a DJ is a great choice. Able to play virtually any song from the past 70 or 80 years, you’ll be able to seamlessly blend Gangnam Style with Crazy Frog, Agadoo and Ernie, The Fastest Milkman in the West (if you so desire). No matter the genre, our DJs are all hugely experienced and you can relax knowing that your party will still be going long after you head off to the hotel!

 

Getting your scent just right

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A guide to help you with choosing the best perfume for your wedding day…

Here are the top 10 favourites will help you decide which one is right for you…

  • Calvin Klein Eternity Moment Eau de Parfum

The perfect Floral, feminine and fresh. The simple bottle portrays the simple, but elegant fragrance which is perfect for those brides that want a classic smell to go with their wedding day look.

  • Calvin Klein Euphoria Women Eau de Toilette

Euphoria is a more mysterious and seducing fragrance from Calvin Klein.

Its exotic fruitiness makes it slightly more off a heavy perfume than Eternity Moment, but not so heavy that it’s overbearing.

  • Chloe Eau de Parfum

Another fresh and feminine scent with Chloe’s well-known signature chic feel.

A light but fun and creative mix that is bound to give you extra confidence on your big day. And, who can say no to a pretty bow?

  • DKNY Be Delicious Golden Apple Eau de Parfum

To match its apple-shaped container, this perfume is full of fruitiness but not so much that you smell like a fruit basket. The subtle fruity flavours are fresh, at the same time as being warm and tempting – a very clever mix we say!

  • Dolce and Gabbana Rose The One Eau de Parfum

All Dolce and Gabbana fragrances are feminine, but Rose The One has more delicacy and romance to it which is perfect for a modern, young bride. It has an understated beauty to it which is very youthful and captivating.

  • Lancôme La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum

The translation ‘Life is beautiful’ describes the positive and happy fragrance from Lancôme perfectly.

Its concept of natural and simple beauty is not let down, with the upbeat but subtle fruitiness and warmth.

  • Marc Jacobs Eau So Fresh Eau de Toilette

This is reminiscent of the original Daisy, but is lighter and fresher – perfect for a spring or summer wedding. The bright and happy florals with light musk is beautifully pleasant and not overpowering. The flower lid is pretty too…

  • Miss Dior Cherie Eau de Parfum

For the sophisticated and chic bride! Dior is always a classic, but this one is young and fun at the same time. Miss Dior Cherie is a long-lasting and charming fragrance that will look nice on any dressing table.

  • Stella McCartney L.I.L.Y Eau de Parfum

This timeless and therefore seasonless perfume is casual and unfussy whilst having a prominent floral smell. A floral smell far from your gran’s favourite old-fashioned perfume as Stella McCartney makes it versatile and up-to-date

  • Vera Wang Lovestruck Eau de Parfum

…a great name in the world of wedding perfumes! Inspired by a modern day twist on Romeo and Juliet; it’s meant to capture the feeling of women struck by love and completely captivated by passion with its romantic and young scent.

 

Get married on a weekday

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About 99% of happy couples want to get married on Fridays or Saturdays. However, despite there being many valid reasons for this, a future bride and groom should always take into consideration a mid-week wedding as it can have many advantages.

Here are her five reasons to choose a mid-week wedding over a weekend…

Cost

There’s one thing couples always ask, how much? Couples fall head over heels for wedding venues and are then put down by the price. However, mid-week weddings are often far more negotiable when it comes to price. It is believed that a mid-week wedding can work out about a third cheaper.

Availability

There is nothing more frustrating for a Wedding Coordinator than showing a couple around their wedding venue and then not being able to find availability for them. Popular wedding venues get booked up in advance so by opting for a weekday wedding, the availability is often a lot better and there will be more flexibility with dates.

Intimacy

Mid-week weddings suit a smaller and more intimate affair. Close family members and friends may be more than happy to take a couple of days off work to celebrate with you. For example, if you choose a day later in the week such as a Thursday, this means that the working week is nearly over and your guests are much more likely to let their hair down.

Quality

Wedding suppliers, from photographers to florists tend to prefer mid-week weddings as not only does it mean they can spend longer at the venue (as Saturday’s tend to be far more hectic), they also have more availability too. Setting up and arranging supplies during the week can also save significant amounts of money too, due to each supplier’s weekend demand.

Timing

It can seem like you spend your whole life waiting for the weekend. And this shouldn’t have to be the case for finding a free weekend at your chosen wedding venue. By having your wedding during the week, you will simply be able to get married sooner! This means there is no big countdown and you don’t have to wait over a year for the big day.

 

Bridesmaid Dress ideas

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The rules for dressing your bridesmaids have changed. They no longer expect to be asked to all wear the same bridesmaids dress, in the same style, in the same colour.

We think that’s a real step ahead. At the end of the day, you want your maids to look happy and smiley in the wedding photographs, not awkward and pulling down their skirt to cover their knees or pulling up the strapless frock they’re having trouble keeping in place.

Mix it up!

Keeping girls over ten happy when it comes to picking the best bridesmaid dresses can be tricky. They don’t want to look ‘girly’ but grown up styles are not right for teenage figures. Involve them in your decision-making and they’ll love you for it! Choose a matching or coordinating fabric that will sit well with the flowergirls’ dresses.”

When planning a wedding there’s no rule any longer that says bridesmaids have to wear exactly the same shade. We love it when brides mix it up a bit. It’s telling that the promotional poster for the comedy film ‘Bridesmaids’ showed all the girls awkwardly dressed in one size fits all hot pink taffeta, with ruffles.

There’s no one style suits all you can see that different styles of neckline feature – strapless and one shouldered. If one of your girls has a small bust she might feel uncomfortable wearing a strapless dress and a sweetheart neckline would be more suitable (actually a sweetheart neckline suits all busts). Or if one of your maids is better endowed then choose a dress with straps.

The same goes for lengths. Some of your girls might be happy with the shape of their legs, others would rather wear something below the knee. It’s always best to talk your ideas through with them and give them some options.

 

Hen Party tips

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The Hen party is one of the events surrounding your wedding that you may be anticipating but not know too much about- which is why we are pointing you in the right direction that will help you, your friends, and your family know what to do when it comes time to plan your Hen party.

1. Don’t be afraid to offer a few suggestions.

Both you and your groom have already built up a rapport with a team of vendors you can’t wait to work with on your wedding day, so don’t be afraid to share their names. Although your best ladies might have ideas of their own, offering the contact information of the pros you love will cut their research time down to a minimum. Also, if you’ve been dreaming of a specific Hen party theme, make it known and share your Pinterest board. Lastly, make sure to share the names and contact information of the ladies that must be included on the guest list. Then step back and let the others do the planning.

2. Decide if the Hen party is a surprise.

Traditionally, Hen parties were always a surprise; however, there are times when a surprise just isn’t in the cards. If the bride does not like surprises, fill her in on the bare minimum specifics – date, time, location, and a hint about what to wear. If none of these points sound like your situation, then surprise away! Whatever you opt to do, make sure to decide early on.

3. Contact a photographer.

Although the number of pros you opt to work with for a Hen may be far less than a wedding, a professional photographer is simply a must. And their calendars fill up quickly! Personal recommendations, chatting with the bride, and taking a peek at the guest lists are all great places to start in order to find a photographer. Let the hosts and guests enjoy the party rather than worrying about capturing every moment from behind a lens.

4. Choose your venues, theme, menus, and time.

One point influences the other, which is why they are often a package deal. Some of the most popular venues are country clubs, wine bars, restaurants, and private homes (gardens are a wonderful option!). If you are thinking about hosting the Hen party at a country club or restaurant, know that you’ll be working off of their menu options. A home allows you to completely customize everything from the colours and décor to the menu and length of the event. In terms of menus and times, plan your Hen party for brunch or lunch and have a length of at least four hours in mind.

5. Know your DIY limits.

Taking on a few projects as a group, such as décor design, wedding menu planning and preparing, creating escort or place cards, or creating an event timeline (writing down the key moments that must happen during the shower and when will help you immensely) is completely fine. But, don’t feel as though you have to tackle every project without a professional. Know your limits whether that’s in regards to time, comfort, or creativity, and consult with a pro if you no longer feel comfortable or confident.

6. Games or no games.

Hen parties are known for their games, but sometimes they might not feel completely organic to the event you have in mind. Playing your own version of the newlywed game complete with the bride or groom answering fun questions about their relationship on video and guests voicing their guesses tends to be a great option. Another plan – create a ribbon bouquet for the bride to use at her rehearsal as a group. Leaving the games to a minimum will allow all of the guests, including the bride, to relax and mingle instead. Plus, it leaves more room in the event timeline in case lunch or opening gifts takes more time than you had initially intended.

7. Invitations!

Similar to a planning a wedding, plan to mail your invitations at least 6-8 weeks in advance of the party, if many guests are traveling in from out of town, send the invites earlier to allow everyone time to make arrangements. Make sure to include all of the basics on your invitations – time, date, location, and what to wear.

8. Event lead up & day of…

If you hired professionals, make sure to confirm all of your plans and provide any additional details at least two weeks in advance. Attempt to complete DIY projects several days, if not a week, in advance (obviously, this excludes wedding food and wedding flowers). Know your rainy day plan – whether that’s moving to a marquee or moving indoors, make your decision at least two days prior to the Hen party. Finally, allow more time than you initially thought necessary to set in terms of events, there’s no such thing as too much setup time. Finishing early just means you have time for a another glass of champagne.

 

Wedding photo ideas to inspire you

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Perfect props

With wedding photo booths becoming more and more popular, brides these days know the importance of a funny prop! Moustaches, glasses, hats and wigs make for hilarious photo opportunities with all your guests, but make sure you get at least one with just you and the girls!

Getting ready

This one’s a classic, but a surprising number of brides forget it! Whether it’s a natural shot of you all prepping for the big day or a posed group photo of you all together (these work particularly well if you’re wearing matching robes, pyjamas or t-shirts!), make sure you capture the atmosphere of excitement and anticipation before the ceremony.

Pucker up

This one is easy peasy – apply lipstick and pout! We especially like images like this if the bridesmaids are wearing a bright pop of colour on their lips, but it’s a funny, girly photo to have in your album whatever your maids are wearing.

Cuddle with mum

If you have tiny flower girls or if your bridesmaids have young children of their own, it’s nice to get a candid shot of the family having a quick cuddle, especially if the little ones are all dolled up for the occasion.

Drink up

This cheeky wedding photo brings a whole new meaning to the term ‘group shot’! Although it may be more traditional to have a photo of the groom and his ushers enjoying a tipple in the bar pre-ceremony, we love to see brides and their girls partaking in a little Dutch courage!

Funky glasses

These days, many couples use their wedding reception as the opportunity to just have a brilliant rave-up with their friends and family. If you and your bridesmaids are serious party animals, don’t forget to dig out some funny photo props like novelty sunglasses and glo sticks!

Funny face

Having younger bridesmaids or flower girls is great for unintentionally hilarious photo opportunities. Get your little ones to goof it up for the camera for a sweet picture that you’ll love – and can bring out at their 18th birthday parties!

Looking back

This is a great opportunity to show off the back of the bridesmaids’ dresses if they have pretty details like bows or keyholes.

Give it some welly!

Let’s face it – in a British countryside wedding, there’s a very good chance that you and your bridesmaids will have wellies on standby whatever the season. Turn it into a positive – buy cool patterned or coloured ones and have a fun photo with you and your girls wearing them!

Swing out sister

Many country wedding venues have swings in their grounds, so use them for a photo opportunity! This is a particularly good shot for brides who only have a small number of maids but still want the fun of a group shot.

 

Excuse for the brides-to-be

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Here are those times when it’s alright to use that age-old excuse of brides-to-be…

To get out of something

  • Sometimes you might find yourself in a situation you don’t want to be in, whether that’s an uncomfortable conversation with a good friend asking if you fancy going to that book club she’s started or just a plain awkward conversation.

  • So know you have a great excuse to get out of anything, you are planning a wedding!!

To show off your ring whenever you want

  • Talking of wedding chat, showing off the ring is another conversation starter and will inevitably grab the attention of anyone around. That well-practiced hand flick of yours to make your ring dazzle and catch people’s eyes will never go to waste, even if you’ve spread the news of your engagement.

To blag some freebies

  • There are lots of bits and bobs involved with weddings, and people know that perfectly well. Because of this, walking around town talking about how you’re getting married may just get you a few freebies. People will want you to buy from them, and what better way to tempt a bride with the loving kindness of a freebie?

  • And then there’s the wedding gift list! Putting together a list of things you want so that people can buy them for you is the absolute dream. That fancy toaster you’ve been eyeing up every time you visit John Lewis? On the list! That activity on your honeymoon that would send you just a bit over budget? On the list!

  • But don’t think it’s all over for you when the wedding has been and gone. If you’ve got a honeymoon planned – whether it’s straight after the big day or a little bit later – it’s a good idea to let them know it’s your honeymoon that you’re celebrating, you lovebirds may just get some special treatment…

To drink in the morning

  • The morning of the big day: the time when the words ‘I’m getting married’ will probably be said again and again in a matter of minutes. It’s a big day and you’ll be feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement, and that glass or bottle of fizz staring at you from your fridge is the perfect way to calm you down. Even if the clock has only just hit 10am, it’s okay because you’re getting married!

 

Weddings Abroad

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While a destination wedding may be your lifelong dream when planning a wedding, remember without your guests there is no event. Consider travel costs and accessibility from where the majority of your guests will be traveling from when selecting a destination.

Knowledge is power

Ask the hard hitting questions before making a commitment when shopping around for a destination wedding.

Peaks and Valleys

The best time of year to travel to the Caribbean and Mexico is the fall. Room rates are lower and some hotels reduce their wedding package pricing or offer added perks/concessions.

Strength in Numbers

Most hotels will offer reduced rates, incentives and concessions for wedding groups who commit to a minimum number of rooms under contract.

Listen to the Experts

Hotels that are committed to destination weddings will have on-site wedding coordinators. Listen to their advice; who else knows the resort better than they do. They are your eyes and ears during the overseas, long distance planning phase. There’s no added cost to utilize the service and expertise of the resort’s coordinator.

Keep it Local

One of the easiest ways to cut costs is to keep it local. Instead of insisting on midnight blue orchids that have to be imported, use wedding flowers grown locally. Don’t insist on bringing your own vendors. Ask the resort for a list of their trusted vendors and capitalize on the relationships built by the resort with these vendors.

Time is on Your Side

Book at least 9-months in advance for best date selection.  Last minute planning a wedding can result in unexpected costs. Plus, make sure the save-the-dates are in the mail well in advance to allow family and friends time to budget and plan.

Legal is so “Yesteryear”

There is no need to get legally married in the destination you’ve chosen. Take care of the legal paperwork in your home state to save hundreds of dollars on the cost of a legal ceremony in another country. You’ll avoid a variety of other ‘legalities’ such as needing to translate documents and blood tests.

Arrive in Style

Plan on arriving at your destination at least three days prior to the wedding day. Use the extra time at your destination and resort to scope out the place, get to know the staff, and meet with the resort coordinator and vendors.

Don’t Go on Price Alone

Trust in the hotels that are willing to show you their pricing upfront. Every ‘free wedding’ promotion has restrictions and requirements.

 

Make your honeymoon romantic

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From the moment you wake you can enjoy together-time with breakfast brought to you on your spacious balcony or veranda, now how wonderful does that sound?

There are many wonderful places to go on honeymoon and some of the most romantic can be Italy, The Seychelles or The Caribbean.

Make the most of your honeymoon and explore your beautiful holiday island taking you to wonderful places of interest where there are sunset bars or take a catamaran cruise, or a classic gondola. You can both experience the most beautiful sunsets in the world, together.

A romantic meal for two

Don’t scrimp on this, enjoy fine dining and experience tastes that you have never tasted before, from a selection of both elegantly casual and formal restaurants, where service is attentive yet unimposing, where creativity and presentation of gourmet cuisine is proudly supervised with passion by the world’s most celebrated chefs.

If you don’t fancy dressing up and want to give the fine dining a miss, go bohemian and have a barefoot chic evening! From a Beach Grill, throughout the night you can have casual dining and be being served delicious local specialities and the catch of the day.

The ultimate in romance is the intimate, private dining experiences on the beach, with just tiki torches and stars twinkling down on you whilst being served by your personal attentive waiter. Combine that with your favourite cocktail, wine, or a glass of champagne while you listen to the Caribbean gently welcoming another stunning sunrise, and you’ll know you’re in paradise!

Spa treat

And don’t forget to book a pampering day for the two of you.  There are many holiday packages that have this included; massages, hot tubs, facials, this would be such a wonderful intimate thing to have together.  Just maybe, this could be the last relaxing holiday you have for a while before the patter of little feet will take up much of your time!

So, when planning a wedding don’t forget to plan a honeymoon to remember..