In May’s edition of the Country & Town House publication, it has a whole feature on ‘Getting Hitched in Style’ so, as a Wedding Planner from SJD Events, I decided to pick out a few highlights of the various articles that appeared.
- Tying the Knot ~ one of my favourite venues of those listed is Whatley Manor in Wiltshire. www.whatleymanor.com.
Then, I also loved the look of the new venue Hilles House. Also, if you are considering getting married overseas, my advice is to check all the rules of the country of choice, as not all UK wedding planners will know so, you might want to consider at Destination Wedding Planner.
- Rules of Engagement by Avril Groom
It was interesting to read how the process of buying an engagement ring has changed radically and I certainly agree with the rules listed.
- That you should do research into the gems that suit you. Research is a key element, as you wouldn’t just buy a house without a survey.
- Learn about the ‘4 C’s’ of diamonds so, you can set a budget and if in doubt speak to a specialist.
I personally would highly recommend Andrew Prince who has become a dear friend and creates some of the most stunning pieces www.andrewprince.co.uk . - When you buy the engagement ring, it is advisable to consider the wedding band to compliment at this time. And, again do some research, don’t just buy the first one, try on loads so you can get the right style for your fingers and hand.
- Wedding Belles – The Insider – Wish List by Nicolette Le Pelley
What I liked here was the Outnumbered feature and particularly the hand carved wooden numbers for the tables from Posh Graffiti. I have to say that personalizing the table numbers/names for the Wedding Breakfast, I think is a great way of bringing your theme through and can also be a an ice breaker and fun.
- Heaven Scent by Nikki Tibbles of Wild at Heart – The Insider on Flowers
Nikki of Wild at Heart starts off with the perfect statement, which I couldn’t agree with more ‘choose flowers that are memorable’. It certainly is all about creating an individual experience to reflect you the couple utilising the different textures, scents, colours and styles of flowers. I also agree with the advice Nikki gives ‘make it individual ~ mix and match’. To see Nikki Tibbles works visit the website at www.wildatheart.com.
Just remember that when you are approaching a florist for your wedding flowers that you need to consider the following points which were highlighted:
- Season ~ keep it to seasonal flowers as it will help to keep within your desired budget.
- Location ~ you need to ensure that the chosen flowers compliment the venue or marquee in the garden.
- Budget ~ one of the most important elements to consider, as traditionally 10% of the overall budget. But, I believe in today’s climate you need to be savvy and look to utilise arrangements throughout the day so, move from a church to venue and really capitalise the expenditure. Also, at the end of the evening ensure you give them away as thank yous.
- Theme ~ if you have a colour in mind or, style then you need to share the information with the florist at the initial meeting otherwise you will not get any clarity. A tip that I suggest to brides is to create a scrap book of likes and dislikes.
- What a Corker by Goedhuis & Co
No wedding will be complete without the alcohol and again you need to be savvy. Some venues will offer a corkage whether a fixed fee per head or on each item. Others will offer a dry hire of the glassware and just a tip see if you can negotiate the removal of the empties at the end of the night. But, the most important point when choosing the alcohol is know your budget and be generous as you certainly don’t want to run out. Always where you can ask for jugs of tap water with lemon which carries no charge and will save you pennies. And, remember to choose the wines and champagne to compliment the food, rather than the other way around. There are always specialists on hand and the caterers also have a wealth of knowledge.
If you want to get your hands on a copy, you can find them in the local news agents around London at £3.60 otherwise, check out the website for more information www.countryandtownhouse.co.uk.
Event Management Consultant and Fundraiser 