A couples bridal party normally includes family members as well as close friends of the bride & groom.  Each role comes with it’s own responsibilities, but the common factor which runs throughout your bridal party is they are all there to help and support you throughout the planning of your wedding day and on the big day itself.

How many people you include is completely up to you.  Some of my brides have chosen to have as many as ten bridesmaids, whilst others have chosen not to have any at all.  Whoever you choose to include will be there for you to offer advice, moral support, love and probably a shoulder to cry on when things get a little stressful throughout the planning process and when emotions are running high on your special day.

Throughout this blog post I will explain the traditional roles associated with each member of your bridal party, but remember this is only a guide and if you wish to break with tradition and shake things up a little that’s perfectly fine. It’s your wedding day after all.

Maid of honour

Your maid of honour is basically your right hand women, providing support whilst you are making plans as well as on your wedding day. This could be helping you find the perfect dress, assisting with sending out your invitations, helping you get organised as your wedding day approaches and not forgetting arranging the all important hen do. They will also be there for you throughout your wedding day making sure your glass is always full, looking after your lipgloss, making sure your flats are close by ready for dancing and not forgetting toilet duties (a maid of honour is not a maid of honour unless she has held up your wedding dress).

Bridesmaids

Traditionally close friends or relatives of the bride, bridesmaids will be there to help the bride and maid of honour throughout the wedding planning journey as well as on the big day. As with the maid of honour bridesmaids will help the bride on her special day making sure all runs smoothly. The duties will vary but typically they may help the photographer gather guests for group shots, set out the place cards ready for when guests take their seats for dinner, make sure your cards and presents are put somewhere safe at the end of the night and of course walk down the aisle before or after the bride.

Flower girls & page boys

Typically the younger members of the bridal party, your flower girl’s and page boy’s main role is to add the cute factor to your wedding day. However, aside from looking adorable you may want your page boys to accompany the flower girls as they walk down the aisle scattering petals from their flower baskets.

Best man

A similar role to that of the maid of honour, but providing support to the groom. The best man is usually the groom’s best friend, brother or a close family member.  Traditionally the best man would stand with the groom at the altar whilst waiting for the bride to make her entrance, as well as keeping the wedding bands safe until they are exchanged throughout the wedding ceremony. The best man also delivers the final speech of the day, (if you are following the traditional order) and arranges the groom’s stag do.

Ushers

The main role of the ushers is to greet guests and show them to their seats before the wedding ceremony begins. Ushers may also be asked to help move items such as chairs and flowers if they are being repurposed following the ceremony.

Parents

We all know that the father of the bride traditionally has a big part to play on his daughters wedding day. Walking the bride down the aisle, delivering a speech and a father & daughter dance throughout the evening reception to name a few. However, the other parents also have important roles, generally providing love & support throughout the wedding preparations and mingling with guests on the big day.

I hope you have enjoyed reading this blog post and it has helped you understand the variety of roles and responsibilities for your wedding party. Throughout this post I have described traditional roles of a bridal party, but these traditions can of course be mixed up. Many brides now choose to have a man of honour in place of a maid of honour, as well as a combination of bridesmen and bridesmaids. They may also choose to have their mum walk them down the aisle as well as give a speech throughout the wedding breakfast. Groom’s may also choose to have two best men or even a best lady. Remember it’s your day and there are no rules, so enjoy choosing your bridal party and allocating their tasks.

If you would like to learn more about planning a wedding take a look at the blog page on my website where you will find an abundance of planning advice and top tips.  And if you are considering working with a wedding planner head over to the wedding planning page on my website or get in touch to discuss how I can assist you.

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Image credit: Chris Bradshaw Photography

Ask anyone in the wedding industry and we will all say the same, weddings are back and they are back with a bang. After being restricted for so long engaged couples are now planning their big day with renewed confidence, a revived passion and an abundance of new and exciting ideas. From supporting small businesses, a full vegan menu and the newly found Anni-ception. Take a read to see what I believe we will be seeing lot’s of now weddings are back.

Garden weddings

Although they have always been a popular choice with couples planning their big day, garden weddings are going nowhere fast, and with lots of couples choosing to marry in their local childhood church, bringing the celebrations back to their parent’s garden to host a relaxed and fun filled reception seems to be the obvious choice.

Some couples are also choosing a marquee celebration to mirror the destination wedding they once wanted but no longer feel is  possible due to travel restrictions. Instead they are choosing to plan a garden wedding incorporating alfresco dining, romantic taplescapes, creative lighting and roaming musicians.

Supporting small businesses

Couples are also looking to support small local businesses when choosing their wedding day suppliers. From working with a local stationer to create their dream invitation suite, choosing caterers who can serve locally sourced produce, through to booking their village florist to create eye catching florals purchased from nearby flower growers. It seems that after spending extra time at home over the past 18 months couples are all the more aware of small local companies that can help them create their dream wedding day.

Sustainability

There has been a steady rise in couples making sustainability a priority when planning their wedding day, with many choosing to provide group transport for their guests in order to cut down on the number of vehicles being used by their wedding guests. Another popular sustainable choice is incorporating potted plants that can be used as centrepieces, which are then gifted to guests at the end of the evening and as mentioned above couples are also making a conscious effort to work with local food suppliers to keep their food miles down.

Vegan wedding food

Tying in with sustainability as well as an increase in newly found vegan diets throughout lockdown, an increasing number of couples are choosing to offer their guests a full vegan menu on their wedding day. From tempting canapés, a delicious three course meal, eye catching evening snacks and not forgetting the much needed wine and beer, all vegan and selected by couples to keep their ethical values at the very heart of their wedding day.

Anni-ception

New for 2021 the anni-ception is set to be popular throughout the coming months.

A number of couples that chose to go ahead with an intimate wedding ceremony in 2020 and beginning of 2021 abiding by the restrictions in place at the time, are now planning to host their restriction free reception on or near their first wedding anniversary.

Some couples are planning to include a church or celebrant lead blessing following a traditional wedding day structure, whilst others are jumping straight into the evening celebration and inviting their friends to party the night away with them celebrating their first wedding anniversary in style.

I hope you have enjoyed reading my thoughts and ideas on what will be popular with couples planning their weddings in the coming months. If you would like further ideas, inspiration and planning advice head over to the blog page on my website where you will find a whole host of posts talking all things weddings. And if you would like to discuss the planning services I offer please do contact me to see how I can help you.

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Image Credit: Terri & Lori Fine Art Photography & Film

If you’re planning your wedding and you are the proud owner of a fur baby, then I am sure you have considered ways you can include them within your wedding celebrations. Whether you own a dog, cat, horse or rabbit, (to name a few), there are lots of ways they can be included, with the obvious option being having them with you for part of your big day. But, if this is not possible fear not as there are many other creative ways you can include your pets within your nuptials without them actually being there on the big day.

Have them with you on your wedding day

As mentioned above the ultimate way to include your pets within your wedding day is to have them with you for part of the day. They could accompany you as your walking up the aisle, stand with the groom at he waits at the altar, have the all important job of being the ring bearer, be with you throughout your canapé reception as you relax and mingle with your family and friends and of course feature in a number of your wedding day photos. Whichever option you choose having your four legged friends with you on your big day does come with a number of challenges which should be considered before making your final decision.

Always check that your venue is pet friendly, and if they are what conditions they have in place should you choose for your pet to be present on your big day. If you will be asking any of your suppliers such as your photographer and videographer to work with your pet you should let them know your plans prior to your wedding day to make sure they are happy to work alongside your four legged friend, and very importantly if you are considering including your furry companion within your ceremony you should most definitely check with the person conducting this that they allow the inclusion of pets.

Assuming all is ok and you are given the go-ahead for your pet to attend your wedding day, you should also consider whether or not this will be a pleasant experience for them. Are they comfortable around large groups of people, are they able to easily travel to and from your venue, is your venue able to offer them a shaded area should your wedding day be blessed with sun and is there someone available to drop them off and collect them later in the day.

Bridal / groom preparations

As wonderful as it would be to have your pet with you on your special day this just may not be practical for some couples, but this doesn’t mean they need to be excluded from the days events. If your bridal and groom preparations are taking place at home or at a family members house why not ask your photographer to include them within a number of your bridal/ groom prep images. Could there be anything cuter than having your fur baby included in your photographs as you prepare for your big day?

Wedding cake

Including your pet into the design of your wedding cake is a fun way to include your pets in your big day. Ask your cake creator to design or source a cake topper that represents your furry friend, or better still ask that they are incorporated into the cake design by having a model of them on the top tier of your cake, climbing up the sides or peeping out from the icing. If you decide to do something along these lines remember to tell your photographer and videographer so they can capture this special detail.

Donation to an animal charity

This is a fabulous idea, especially if you found your own pet via a charity. You could make a donation in place of favors and simply let your guests know via a short poem or a card placed on each table. Alternatively, you could invite your guests to make donations to your chosen animal charity in place of gifts. Either way a charitable donation is the perfect way to express your love for animals on your special day.

Hopefully this blog post has given you a little inspiration on how to include your furry friends within your wedding day, and if you are looking for additional wedding planning advice please do take a look at my other blog posts which are packed full of top tips and useful information.

I am a wedding planner based in Essex, I primarily plan weddings within Essex, Suffolk, Kent, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, however, I am able to travel a little further afield if required. If you are considering working with a wedding planner please do get in touch to discuss the wedding planning services I offer, I would love to hear from you.

Image Credit: Hannah Phipps Photography 

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Your wedding day is fast approaching, your to do list should be shrinking and it’s now time to plan for the all important final meeting with your wedding venue.

In order that your final meeting be as productive as possible most venues will send you a schedule of points to discuss or a final itinerary ahead of your meeting. Be sure to take a look at this, noting any questions your venue have so you can attend your meeting armed with all the information they require. You should also take time to consider any points you would like to confirm, so do take a little time to prepare this list prior to your final meeting.

With so many last minute points to consider it’s easy to become overwhelmed, so I’ve put together a few pointers to help you prepare for your final meeting and ensure nothing is overlooked.

Supplier details

You should furnish your venue with a comprehensive list of your suppliers including their mobile contact number (not their office number), the time they are expecting to arrive at your venue, what items they are supplying, the area that they will be setting up their equipment and when they will be returning to collect any hire items.

Wedding day timings & Locations

You should also expect to run through all timings for your day. If bridal/groom prep is taking place at your venue you should start with the time you are allowed to arrive, then moving onto the time you will meet with the registrars ahead of your ceremony, followed by your ceremony start and finish time, your drinks reception timings, wedding breakfast service time, the amount of time you have allocated for your speeches, the time your evening guests will arrive, when your cake cutting & first dance will take place, the time your evening celebrations will end and finally if you are staying at your venue the time you and your guests will need to check out the morning following your wedding day.

You should also discuss the rooms/spaces that you will be using for each element of your big day as well as confirming a suitable plan b should the weather not allow your original plans to go ahead.

Guests

Your final meeting is also the perfect opportunity to inform your venue of your final guest numbers, your guests dietary requirements and any other needs that your guests may have.

You should also discuss your table plan and inform your venue where you have seated children who require a highchair, parents who will have babies in pushchairs as well as any guests that will be in a wheelchair. This will allow your venue to ensure there is suitable space in the areas where these guests are seated.

Additional information

In order that your day runs as smoothly as possible you should also discuss points such as who will be playing your ceremony music, (if you have chosen a playlist rather than a live musician), who will be announcing you into your wedding breakfast and playing your entrance song, does your venue have a cake stand, a cake knife and an easel for your seating plan. You should also discuss your evening bar arrangements ensuring your venue is aware of your wishes, for example will you be offering your guests a free bar, and if so which beverages will be included. You should also discuss when your venue will offer your suppliers their meals to ensure this isn’t at a time when they will be performing.

Finally, if you have any items that you need to drop to your venue such as your seating plan, favors, name cards, guest book, card box and gifts for the bridal party you should discuss with your venue when these items can be delivered and whether or not they will set them out for you on the morning of your wedding. If your venue does not offer a morning set up service you should arrange for a member of your bridal party to do this for you.

I do hope that this brief guide has helped you prepare for your final meeting and that you are excited to be finalising the plans for your big day. If however you would like a little support in the countdown to your wedding or with any other accept of planning your big day, please do get in touch to discuss the planning services I offer. I am a wedding planner based in Brentwood Essex, I primarily plan and deliver weddings throughout Essex, Suffolk, Kent, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, although I am able to travel a little further afield if required.

Image Credit: Danielle Smith Photography

You have spent the last few months carefully planning your wedding day down to the smallest of detail, and are now looking forward to enjoying your big day. Whilst I’m sure you aren’t planning on encountering any mini emergencies, the fact is issues will occur on your wedding day despite your best efforts to ensure all runs smoothly.

As a wedding planner I would never attend a wedding without my trusty emergency kit which contains a number of personal and practical items that help to quickly address any problems that may arise. Plasters for a guest’s blister, hayfever tablets for a member of the bridal party, a mini sewing kit to rectify an outfit issue and extra tealights to ensure your venue looks just as stunning for your evening guests as it did when your first guest arrived.  All of which are just a small example of the items I have in my planners emergency kit.

Whilst I wouldn’t expect a couples kit to be as extensive as a planners emergency kit, it is definitely a good idea for couples to have a selection of essential items safely packed away in a wedding day survival kit to help with any last minute mini emergencies.

So what exactly should be included within this kit? Take a look below to see which items you might need:

Personal items

• Hairspray
• Hairbrush/comb
• Hairgrips
• Hairbands
• Make up kit
• Lipbalm
• Cotton buds
• Dental floss
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Tampons/sanitary towels
• Deodorant
• Nail file
• Tweezers
• Pack of tissues
• Suncream
• Headache tablets
• Hayfever tablets
• Plasters (various sizes)
• Baby wipes
• Pack of mints
• Pack of chewing gum
• Bottles of water
• Copy of your wedding day schedule
• Contact details for each of your suppliers
• Copy of your guest list

Practical Items

• Apparel tape
• Wundaweb
• Scissors
• Safety pins
• Sewing kit
• Lint roller
• Batteries
• Blue tac
• Sellotape
• Drawing pins
• Glue dots
• String
• Candle lighter/matches /lighter
• Spare tealights
• Phone charger

Additional items for marquee & dry hire weddings

• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Extension leads
• Fishing wire
• Torch

Some couples also place a basket of essential items in the restrooms for their guests to use throughout the day. These baskets will often include many of the items listed within the personal items above, although, I always recommend that tablets are not included within guest’s baskets just incase they are found by any children that may be attending your wedding day.

I hope this blog post has helped you to plan for any small emergencies that could occur on your wedding day. If you would like to read further wedding planning advice do take a look at my other blog posts, or contact me to discuss how I can assist you with the planning of your big day.

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With few rules and regulations to consider many couples are drawn to the flexibility a marquee wedding reception has to offer. Building a venue from scratch and working with a blank canvas interior appeals to couples who are keen to style their wedding reception in a way that perfectly matches their vision, rather than having to consider a venues permanent fixtures and colour scheme.

However, as you would expect planning a wedding reception within a marquee requires a huge amount of creativity and vision as well as an abundance of organisation, and with no venue staff to offer guidance and advice, couples can soon become overwhelmed. Of course, if you are working with a wedding planner they will no doubt inspire you with mood boards, suggestions and inspiration throughout the planning process. But for those of you who are planning your own wedding, I am very excited to be sharing my marquee styling tips and suggestions to help you perfectly style your marquee reception.

Style of marquee

Choosing the style of your marquee is the first styling decision you will make. Many couples planning a festival, bohemian or alternative style of wedding will choose a tipi or yurt style structure. Whilst couples planning a more traditional wedding are more likely to choose a classic structure such as a traditional pole, clear span or an elegant sailcloth marquee.

Flooring

Coconut matting or coir matting as it is sometimes known is a popular and cost effective choice for couples planning their wedding within a tipi, or for couples who are planning a more relaxed celebration. Whilst couples who are hosting a classic and elegant wedding day will typically choose to cover their flooring with carpet which compliments this style of wedding perfectly.

As a side note, you should always request that your marquee company supplies a new carpet, and if you have chosen a light shade you should ask that the protective film be left in position and removed by a marquee attendant shortly before your guests are due to arrive.

Creative lighting

Creative lighting is the perfect way to transform the interior of your marquee. The possibilities are endless and range from festoon lighting around the perimeter of the marquee, fairy lights/pealights suspended above  the dance floor, around the edges of the marque and wrapped around the interior poles of a traditional pole marquee. You can also hire chandeliers which will help to create an elegant ambience, or coloured lanterns which are perfect for festival style celebrations. Uplighters can also be positioned around the base of your marquee and are perfect for creating a party atmosphere as the evening celebrations begin.

When choosing your creative lighting remember that this can be extended to include the grounds in which your marquee is positioned. If you are looking to create a wow factor consider decorating trees with fairy lights, which can be wrapped around their branches, trunks or both. You could also position uplighters/floodlights within flowerbeds or against tree trunks, whilst festoon lighting on shepherd hooks are perfect for creating walkways to your mobile toilet units or carpark.

Furniture

The furniture choices you make for your wedding breakfast will probably depend on the style of wedding you are planning. Wooden trestle tables are a popular choice with couples planning a relaxed and informal wedding, whilst couples who are hosting a more traditional wedding day often choose round tables for their guests and a long table for their top table.

The seating options available are vast and include wooden benches, cross back chairs, folding chairs, chiavari chairs, ghost chairs, Brentwood chairs and not forgetting luxurious chairs such as Louis chairs, Malone chairs & Dior chairs.

Furniture options need not end with your wedding breakfast furniture, so consider incorporating  additional items such as a bar area with bar stools and poseur tables as well as a lounge area, both of which offer the perfect opportunity to further style your marquee as well as providing your guests with additional areas in which they can mingle and have fun.

As with creative lighting your furniture choices can also be extended outside with rattan garden sets, luxury lounge areas, traditional pub benches and even hay bales offering your guests the perfect opportunity to relax outside.

Florals, florals & more florals

You shouldn’t under estimate the difference florals will make to your marquee. They are the perfect way to incorporate your colour palette as well as enhance the style of wedding you are planning. For couples wishing to create a visual impact lining the walkway to your marquee with a beautiful flower meadow and adorning the entrance with a stunning flower arch is sure to create a lasting first impression. Hanging installations such as flower clouds suspended above your tables, suspending single stems around the perimeter of your dance floor and foliage and delicate flowers perfectly draping marquee poles are all wonderful ways to transform the interior of your marquee. You could also consider decorating your bar and lounge area with beautiful floral arrangements and not forgetting the centrepieces for your tables.

Upgrade your table styling

Often overlooked by couples, but upgrading your place settings is a fabulous way to further style your marquee. Hiring upgraded table linen & napkins, choosing premium cutlery, glassware and tableware will add additional detail to your wedding breakfast tables and also offers the perfect opportunity to incorporate additional stying detail into your wedding day.

I hope this brief guide to styling your marquee has offered you inspiration on how to decorate your marquee reception in a way that perfectly reflects your wedding day. If however you would like further guidance on any aspect of planning your wedding please get in touch to discuss the planning services I offer.

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Image Credit: Terri & Lori Fine Art photography & Film

Choosing your wedding photographer is an important decision to make when planning your wedding. They will capture fun moments from your pre-ceremony preparations, tender moments as you exchange vows, emotional moments throughout your speeches and not forgetting the fun that was had during your evening reception. But, booking your dream photographer is just the first step in ensuring you have photos which capture the emotion and fun as well as each tiny detail of your big day.

Once you have chosen your photographer you should discuss your wedding day with them so they fully understand the wedding you are planning. How many guests are you inviting, are you planning on including lots of entertainment, do you have large families and therefore require extra group shots and how much of your day would you like them to capture?  Discussing these details with your photographer will help them advice which photography package is best for you and whether or not you require a second shooter to ensure each precious moment is captured.

Wedding day’s are packed full of amazing photo opportunities, so your photographer will ask you to provide a list of your must have shots as well as recommend any that you may not have considered, or that they think will work well with the style of wedding you are planning.

Whilst there are a number of popular images that couples are aware of, there is also an abundance of wonderful images that some couples may not of considered . So, to help you put together a must have list for your photographer, I’ve shared below a number of suggestions to inspire you:

Pre ceremony prep

As every couple knows their wedding day begins with pre ceremony prep. So, consider having your photographer with you as the fun begins. Your photographer will capture the hair stylist and make up artist in action, the bride sharing a glass of bubbles with her bridesmaids, as well as emotional moments such as the bride getting into her dress, reading a card from her fiancé and the proud moment the father (or mother) of the bride sees their daughter ready in her dress for the first time. They will also take photos of the bride with her parents and bridesmaids as well as the exciting moment that everyone is all set and ready to leave for the ceremony.

Let’s not forget that groom’s have fun getting ready too, so make sure their prep is included on your short list. Your photographer can capture touching moments of the groom with his parents and fun lighthearted moments of the groom with his groomsmen.

If you are getting ready in the same venue then this will be easy for your photographer to arrange. However, if  your pre ceremony preparations are taking place in separate locations this is a perfect example of how a second shooter will help ensure each precious moment is captured.

Details

After spending months and quite possibly years planning each tiny details of  your wedding you should consider including lots of detail shots on your final list. Close up photo’s of the bouquets and button holes, the brides dress, shoes and accessories are great ways to capture each tiny detail. You may also like to ask your photographer to take a photo of your invitation suite (you will need to give this to them in advance), any wedding day signage, close up images of your table settings including your table numbers, menus, wedding cake and any additional styling that you may have incorporated into you day. It’s also worth remembering that you may not see the interior of your venue before your guests take their seats for dinner, so asking your photographer to take a photo of the venue set for wedding breakfast prior to guests arrival will allow you to see the beautiful set up without guests mingling in the background.

Ceremony

Your ceremony will provide an abundance of precious moments for your photographer to capture from the bride arriving at the church, the groom waiting at the altar, the bridesmaids tending to the bride just before she walks up the aisle, the utter cuteness of the flower girls and page boys and of course the groom’s reaction when he catches the first glimpse of his bride and that’s before you exchange vows, the first kiss, sign the register and the all important just married shot.

Guests

Guests play a huge part in your wedding day, so it’s only right that they should feature in your wedding album. Speak to your photographer about the group shots that you would like, remembering to include your bridal party, close family members, special friends your confetti shot and a large group shot including each of your guests. You may also wish to speak to your photographer to discuss candid shots of your guests relaxing and having fun, as well as their reactions throughout your ceremony, speeches, cake cutting and first dance which would normally be the job of  a second shooter whilst your main photographer is capturing key moments of the happy couple.

The newly weds

If your photographer has worked at your venue before they will be able to suggest the perfect locations for your couple shots. There could be a meadow which is perfect for your sunset photos, or maybe a secluded secret garden where you can take some time out, walking and chatting whilst your photographer discreetly snaps away. As well as your photographer’s suggestions you will probably have seen images of other couples who have married at your venue, so discuss any that you particularly love with your photographer and ask that they use this as inspiration when planning your couples shots. There could be a statement wall or a favourite feature such as a staircase or fireplace that you would like to use as a backdrop for a selection of your images together. Or you may want in incorporate a smoke bomb into some of your outside shots to get those extra fun images. There are also individual photos of each other to consider such as the finishing touches to bridal prep, (putting shoes, jewellery or perfume on), and the groom positioning his buttonhole, as well as selection of images once you are both ready to leave for the ceremony.

Wedding breakfast & evening reception

The wedding breakfast & evening reception will makes up a large part of your big day and includes lots of key moments such as your speeches, cutting the wedding cake and first dance. There are also many other moments which you may want captured such as being announced in to your wedding breakfast, images of your entertainment , the bouquet toss, you and your guests partying and finally the sparkler shot once the sun has set.

I hope you have enjoyed reading my short guide on the must have photos for your wedding day, and if you are planning your wedding and think that I could help you further I would love to hear from you. I am a wedding planner based in Brentwood Essex. I plan and co-ordinate weddings and special occasions throughout Essex, Suffolk, Kent, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, although I am able to travel a further afield if required.

Image Credit: Terri & Lori Fine Art Photography & Film

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Choosing your wedding stationery will be one of the more creative and fun elements of planning your wedding. Your save the dates or invitations will provide your guests with a sneak peak of the wedding you are planning with the colour palette and wording giving your guests a small glimpse of what they can expect when they attend your wedding, which will undoubtedly help to build excitement for your big day.

Of course, your save the dates and invitations are just a small part of the stationery suite that you will need for your wedding day, with many items needed for the big day itself. To help you decide which stationery items you will need, I am very excited to share a guide to help you choose which stationery items you may require for your wedding day.

Save the date’s

Save the dates are sent by couples to inform guests of their wedding date and to ask that they keep this day free. Unlike the official invitation there is no need for save the dates to contain all the information about your wedding. Instead, it should just include your names and also the date of your wedding, although a little extra information will be required if you are marrying abroad. Of course, save the dates aren’t always necessary especially if you are planning a wedding which will take place in the coming months. However, if you are planning your wedding in advance it is a good idea to send guests a save the date as this will ensure they do not book a holiday, or accept another invitation for your wedding date.

Invitations

As mentioned above your invitations will probably be your guests first glimpse of the wedding day you are planning. You should therefore take time to ensure you choose an invitation that reflects your wedding day by choosing the perfect colour palette and suitable wording that suits the style of wedding you are planning.

As well as carefully choosing the perfect style of invitation, you should also ensure that your invitation contains all the information your guests will need, such as:

• Your names
• The date
• The time you would like your guests to arrive as well as the ceremony time
• The location of your ceremony
• The location of your reception (if different from your ceremony)
• Accommodation details
• Local taxi companies
• Carriages (this allows guests to book their lift in advance)
• RSVP details

As well as the above you should also clearly state whether or not children are invited, if your guest has a plus one as well as the part of the day they are invited to, (all day or evening reception only). You may also like to include details of your gift list and other additional information such as parking facilities at your church/venue.

Ceremony reserved seating 

Often overlooked by couples, but if you would like your close family and friends to sit in a particular seat or within the first few rows , then you should consider asking your stationer to create small reserved signs including who the seat is reserved for. This will also ensure seating has been reserved for your bridesmaids and father of the bride who will take their seats after the other guests.

Order of service

Your order of service would normally be handed to guests by your ushers as they arrive for your ceremony, or left on seats prior to guests arriving. The contents will depend on the service you are having, for example, if you have chosen a church ceremony you would normally include your names, details of your church, the date and time the ceremony will begin as well as a running order of the ceremony including details of hymns, prayers and readings. If you are having a civil ceremony or blessing then you would include details of your wedding venue rather than a church and list your song choices and any readings or poems in place of hymns and prayers.

Schedule of the day

Displaying a beautiful schedule of your wedding day is not only a great opportunity to add extra styling detail to your big day, but it is also extremely helpful for your guests. Letting your guests know what they can expect throughout the day will help them to relax and have fun, as well as stopping them from missing an important moment and visiting the washrooms as you’re about to have your first dance.

Seating plan & table stationery

If you are asking your guests to sit on a particular table throughout wedding breakfast then a clear and well positioned table plan is essential. Your guests should be able to easily find their names as well as the table number or table name they will be seated on.

You should also clearly display your table numbers or table names in the centre of each table, ensuring they have been positioned facing the entrance so your guests can easily locate the table that they will be seated at. As well as table numbers you should also position place cards above each place setting so your guests can see where they have been seated. Place cards are also helpful for caterers who may need to identify any guests who have dietary requirements. You may also like to position individual menus on each place setting or display a menu in the centre of your table to inform guests of the delicious meal they will be enjoying, although this is of course an optional extra.

Additional items

Not strictly considered as stationery, but I would normally include the following items within my couples stationery budget which helps ensure they are not overlooked.

• Guest book & pens
• Card box
• Signage, such as parking signs & wedding signs
• Table number holders
• Easel

Thank you cards

And finally you will need thank you cards to thank each of your guests for sharing your special day, as well as thanking them for any gifts or money they kindly gifted to you. Many couples choose to coordinate their thank you cards with their other wedding stationery, or include a photograph from their wedding day on the front of their thank you cards, which also doubles as a lovely keepsake for each of your guests to remind them of your special day.

I do hope that this brief guide to wedding stationery has provided you with a little guidance on the stationery you will require for your wedding day. If however you think you would benefit from further assistance with any aspect of planning your wedding please do contact me. I am a wedding planner based in Brentwood Essex, planning and creating weddings and special occasions throughout Essex, Suffolk, Kent, Hertfordshire & Cambridgeshire, although of course I am able to travel a little further afield if required.

Image Credit : Terri & Lori Fine Art Photography & Film

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When planning your wedding it’s inevitable that you will encounter a number of issues along the way. Your florist may need to tweak your florals to fit your budget, you may need to compromise on the style of cake you order, or your first choice band may already have a booking for your wedding day. Each of these are frequent obstacles you could come across when planning your special day, but there are also a number of common wedding planning mistakes which can be avoided if you are aware of them.

The good news is, if you have a wedding planner they will be able to guide you through the planning process avoiding these errors. However, I am aware that not every couple will be working with a planner so I have shared below a list of the common mistakes couples make when planning their wedding, as well as how to avoid them.

Blowing the budget on your venue

Too often couples will go ahead and book their wedding venue prior to confirming their wedding day budget. As tempting as it is to book the venue which seems perfect for your big day, you should first have a clear idea of your wedding day budget and how much of this budget will be allocated to your venue.

If after further investigation your ideal venue is too expensive, you could consider marrying within low season or booking a midweek wedding, both of which can reduce a wedding venues hire fees considerably.

Forgetting to check a venues minimum & maximum guest numbers

As well as booking a venue before confirming their wedding day budget, couples can also forget to confirm a venues maximum and minimum guest requirements prior to paying their deposit.

Before booking your venue you should have a draft guest list which will provide you with an idea of your guest numbers. In order to ensure the venue meets your guest requirements you should check the venue can accommodate the number of guests you are expecting for your ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening reception. Equally you should check that your guest list meets the venues minimum guest requirements, as failure to do so could incur additional charges.

Forgetting to book your registrar

Another common error made by couples is wrongly assuming they are booking a registrar to conduct their wedding when they book their venue. Couples should call the venues local registrar’s office to book registrars to conduct their ceremony and confirm their ceremony time. Once this has been done you should inform your venue of the time that has been confirmed for your wedding ceremony.

Not arranging an early set up with musicians / DJ

It’s easy to see how this can be overlooked, but in order for your wedding to run as smoothly and seamlessly as possible you should discuss at point of enquiry whether or not your musicians/DJ offers an early set up service. If this is discussed early in the booking process it is often not a problem, however  issues could arise if this is not discussed early on. Of course, if an early set up is not possible then it can be worked around. However, you should be prepared for your musicians to set up with your guests present which will often involve carrying instruments and conducting sound checks in front of your guests, (which would normally take place following your speeches). Unless of course your evening celebration is taking place within a different room to that of your wedding breakfast.

Excluding a videographer from your supplier list

Not hiring a videographer is often a  couples biggest regret. Whilst photos are beautiful and a wonderful keepsake of your special day, there are some moments – exchanging vows, speeches and the first dance  which are wonderful when captured on film. If there is wiggle room in your budget, then you won’t regret hiring a videographer.

Including traditions that are not important to you

Not seeing each other on your wedding morning, the confetti throw, speeches, cake cutting & first dance are all wedding day traditions that many couples still include within their wedding day. However, if they do not appeal to you, or one of them is causing unnecessary stress, then why include it? Instead plan a wedding that truly reflects you both as a couple and ditch the traditions that are just not important to you both.

Incorrect timings

Whilst it is your special day, keeping your guests happy and entertained should be high on your priority list. Inflicting an extended drinks reception can make time drag for guests especially if they have had a long journey, have children, or are beginning to feel hungry. Similarly,  Speeches lasting for an hour and a half will often cause guests to become restless, and a long gap between your afternoon reception and your evening party can become boring for guests. To avoid this speak to your venue and each of your on the day suppliers and ask their advice on wedding day timings. Or work with a wedding planner or wedding co-ordinator who will be able to put together a wedding day schedule for you.

No plan B

Of course every couple hopes the weather will be kind to them on their wedding day. But, it’s important to be realistic. Speak to your venue to confirm their wet weather plan and ask to see images of this area set for a wedding, which will give you an idea of what to expect should you need to revert to your plan b.

If you’re hosting your reception within a marquee, ensure you have set aside room within the marquee for guests to stand throughout your drinks reception. It is also worth speaking to your marquee company to see if they can supply at last minute an additional tent to cover your restrooms as well as a coir matting walkway from your carpark to the marquee, should they be required.

Forgetting to have fun

This is so important that I actually have a whole blog post on this topic. In short couples can become so consumed in planning their wedding and ensuring all runs smoothly that they forget to relax and enjoy their wedding day.

Always remember to delegate small tasks to a number of trusted guests. This could be asking a bridesmaid to help your photographer locate guests for group photos, asking your ushers to relocate your ceremony flowers to their new position following your ceremony, or, sharing your wedding day schedule with a select few from your bridal party.

This will leave you safe in the knowledge that your nearest and dearest are keeping an eye on the days events for you, allowing you to relax, have fun and savour every precious moment of your special day.

I hope that this brief guide to common wedding planning mistakes has been helpful and alerted you to any potential issues that you may come across whilst planning your wedding day.

If you are planning your wedding and feel that you could benefit from working with a wedding planner, then please do get in touch. I am based in Brentwood Essex and primarily plan and co-ordinate weddings and celebrations throughout Essex, Suffolk, Kent, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, although I am also able to travel a little further if required.

Image Credit: Terri & Lori Fine Art Photography & Film

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Styling your wedding day is a job not to be taken lightly. It takes an abundance of research, creativity and a keen eye for detail.

Each decision you make from the venue you choose, the colour palette you incorporate and the food you serve your guests will contribute to the overall style of your wedding. Not forgetting extra details such as your tableware, your choice of florals and the beverages you serve your guests, all of which will seamlessly bind each aspect of your wedding together creating a natural flow throughout your big day.

With so many elements to consider it can be difficult to know where to start. So to help you along the way, I am very excited to be sharing styling ideas, top tips and a huge helping of inspiration, all of which will hopefully make styling your wedding a little easier.

Style of wedding

One of the first things you will need to establish is the style of wedding you favour. Will you be hosting an elegant wedding within a grand manor house, a relaxed celebration within a converted barn with a rustic/vintage theme or maybe you favour a bohemian style wedding reception within a tipi. Whichever you choose, making this decision is the first step in styling your wedding day.

Enhance your venues features

Once you know the style of wedding you will be hosting you will then be able to confirm your venue, and once you have chosen your venue you will be able to begin confirming your styling choices.

Taking inspiration from your venue is a great place to start. Look at their website or social media accounts to see their previous weddings. If you have chosen a marquee or tipi reception take a look at the marquee companies website and social media accounts as they will also showcase previous weddings to inspire couples.

If your venue has a feature that you particularly love such as a fireplace or a staircase then consider enhancing this feature. Or, if you have a blank canvas venue such as a marquee then maybe make a feature of the entrance, the bar area or the dance floor.

Colour palette

When choosing your colour palette start by thinking about colours that you both love. Which hues have you used to decorate your home. Do you favour lighter softer shades or are you drawn to darker stronger tones. Which colours have your venue used for their permanent features and can you compliment these with your chosen colour palette.

You should also consider the season in which you are marrying and also bare in mind that your chosen colours will feature in many elements of your wedding day such as your invitations, florals, tableware and any general decoration such as signage, so it should also reflect the style of wedding you are planning.

Floral displays

Whether you choose fresh, dried, faux or a combination of each, it’s highly likely that flowers will play a big part in your wedding day styling. The floral choices you make can quite literally transform your venue and are also a wonderful way to incorporate your colour palette into your big day.

For couples looking to create a visual impact you may wish to consider suspended flower installations, floral arches or a flower meadow lining your aisle. Or if you would prefer to keep things low key consider decorating their venue with groupings of bud vases filled with seasonal blooms.

Also remember you can repurpose your some of your flowers, with many couples using the bridal and bridesmaids bouquets to decorate their cake table, guest book table or bar area once all photographs have been taken, as well as incorporating their ceremony flowers into their wedding breakfast by using the display from the ceremony table to contribute to the florals displayed on their top table.

Table styling

Adding delicate touches to your wedding tables is another great way to incorporate both your colour palette and wedding style into your big day. Choosing tableware that perfectly matches your chosen wedding theme rather than using your caterers standard option, upgrading your table linen, incorporating elegant tapered candles alongside an abundance of tealights and florals which compliment both your venue and style are all perfect ways to add additional styling detail to your wedding day.

Creative lighting

Never underestimate the impact creative lighting will create. Simple additions such as uplighters can perfectly transform your daytime space into the ultimate party area. Fairylights will add a touch of romance, whether this be small garlands perfectly positioned around your venue or a dramatic fairlylight canopy suspended above your dance floor. Festoon lighting is perfect for festival themed weddings and is also a fabulous way to create walkways to guide your guests to their vehicles at the end of the night.

Wedding day signage

Wedding day signage is the ultimate way to both style and personalise your wedding day. Whether this is a welcome sign, your order of the day or quirky quotes scattered around your venue and it’s grounds. Incorporating signage will allow you to keep your guests informed as well as inject an extra layer of styling detail. And as an additional bonus if you have purchased your signage rather than hired it, it also makes for a wonderful keepsake from your big day.

Elegant draping

Draping is often overlooked by couples, but it is an effective way to add elegance and depth to your wedding day styling. It can be used as a back drop behind your top table, or as a sophisticated photo booth. It can be suspended from ceilings and is also a decorative way to section off larger venues, making it a fantastic option for those couples who are intending on hosting an intimate wedding within a larger venue.

Balloons

Raising in popularity over recent years balloons are a great way to make a huge visual impact as well as injecting a pop of your colour palette to your wedding day. From arches, garlands, ceiling installations to large individual balloons framing your top table. Whichever style you choose balloons make a fun addition to your wedding day styling.

So, there’s my tips and inspiration on all things wedding styling. I do hope that you have found this post helpful and that it has provided you with lots of creative ideas on how to successfully style your wedding day.

If you are seeking advice on other areas of wedding planning, take a look at my blog where you will find a whole host of useful information to help you plan your wedding. If however you are considering working with a wedding planner to assist you with the planning of your big day, then please do get in touch. I offer a range of planning services each created to ensure I am able to work with couples no matter what stage they are at in planning their wedding. I am based in Brentwood, Essex and am able to travel to surrounding areas such as Suffolk, Kent, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, however, I am able to travel a little further afield if required.

Image Credit: Terri & Lori Fine Art Photography & Film

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