Irishweddings No strife as you begin your future life! A D V E R T I S I N G
F E A T U R E
Wedding planner Bláithín O’Reilly Murphy talks about how to avoid stress getting in the way of your perfect day
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pend at least two to six months researching weddings before actually booking anything,” says Bláithín. “A lack of knowledge around what everything costs is one of the main stressors when it comes to wedding planning, so before you set a budget, do your research on what weddings and suppliers cost.” Bláithín, who set up her business The Wedding Planner 10 years ago, says many couples who set a budget forget to take into account the hidden costs. “There are extra costs that aren’t always obvious when you ask someone for a quotation. In the case of a
photographer or videographer, they’re generally there with you throughout the day. They may need to travel a far distance or if they’re staying after the meal, they will need food. Have a contingency fund. By putting some money aside that isn’t earmarked for something specific, it’s not a huge shock when these costs arise.” Bridal party Bláithín says the next major stressor for many couples is the guestlist. “The guestlist dictates where the biggest part of your budget is going to be spent. Some properties may only fit 80 people and this can be a great way of limiting your guestlist.
‘Unfortunately we just can’t fit you’ is nicer than saying ‘unfortunately we just can’t afford you.’ “Many venues offer different packages at good prices to suit whatever number of guests that you’re inviting. Compare what’s actually included in the package when you choose your venue, such as decorative items or wine, as opposed to just comparing one overall price with another.” Stephen Bell, award-winning Wedding Sales Manager at Lough Eske Castle, a Solis Hotel & Spa in Donegal, also advises couples to take into account the time of the year when choosing their venue. “Have a specific time of year in mind as both inside
not only you and your bridal party will receive but also all your guests. You want to ensure that everyone gets that special attention on your day so that it stands out and is memorable for all.”
Bláithín O’Reilly Murphy
and outside the venue may look completely different at various times of the year. Picking a venue with great scenery won’t be beneficial if it’s going to be dark when everyone arrives. If it’s a parkland venue, the colour of the trees will look totally different in summer and autumn. When deciding on a venue, do some research beforehand and see what past couples have to say. This will give you a real picture of how the hotel will treat you and your guests. Ask the hotel about the service that
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Opposites attract With love, it has been said that opposites attract. But what happens if opposite opinions clash, and couples can’t negotiate on certain wedding details? “I want to say the bride is always right,” laughs Bláithín, “but when it’s two brides, that’s very difficult! Marriage is all about two people trying to forge their way into a new life together and there are always things you need to compromise on. It’s about finding the best option or solution for you both. With one couple I worked with, the woman wanted to elope, but her partner wanted a big wed-
ding. They ended up having a semi-destination wedding on an island, giving one the elopement aspect of going away and the other the aspect of having loads of people there. “If you’re realistic with your budget and with what you want, if you keep in contact with the various suppliers and your venue, and if you research early, then the run-up to your wedding shouldn’t be as stressful. Take advice from professionals. Delegate to your bridesmaids and groomsmen different tasks, so you don’t take everything on yourself. Even if you’re not having a planner or co-ordinator, I would still create a schedule for the day with contacts and timings of various things that will happen and give a copy to people you trust. Relax, enjoy your day and don’t get too stressed over the details.”