PLANNING SOS

Plan the PERFECT WEDDING

Local suppliers share tips and tricks to help couples create their dream day

As weddings are such memorable occasions, the whole experience should be enjoyable from when you get engaged to arriving home from your honeymoon. Planning a wedding might seem like a scary experience at first with so many different aspects to consider – it’s hard knowing where to start. For most of us, this new experience can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve gathered top suppliers from around the counties to share their advice for wedding planning. So take a deep breath, be open-minded and remember, this is your wedding after all. All that matters is the two of you are happy, and the day represents you both.

Sarah says: A wedding ring is an item you only buy once and wear forever; this is not a decision to be rushed.

Rings are a physical embodiment of the vows you’re making to each other, so give yourself plenty of time to choose them well before the ceremony. Order the pieces six to eight weeks in advance. These can be ready quicker if the rings are available in-store, so always be sure to check. Bespoke pieces will take longer to create, so allow yourself at least eight to ten weeks for the items to arrive. If you’re thinking of making the pieces personal with engravings, remember this will take longer.

Always consider when ordering your jewellery the date of your final fittings. That way, you’ll get the full effect and can check everything works together. Once the big-ticket items are sorted, you can then focus on the additional pieces that will complete your look.

How about bespoke pieces for the bridal party? Incorporating a bridesmaid’s birthstone is a simple way to make an item personal. Another popular gift at the moment is personalised cufflinks. While most commonly done for the groom, these are also being gifted to groomsmen.

Chances are you’ll be setting time aside for some primping and preening, so why not give your engagement rings some tender loving care too? At Baker Brothers, we offer a free cleaning service for customers who purchase rings on-site and we encourage couples to pop in two weeks before the wedding. Afterwards, we suggest getting your rings checked and cleaned every three to five years, although this will vary depending on how you wear your rings. Sarah Colley | Baker Brothers www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

RAISE A GLASS

John says: On average, planning a wedding will start 18 months before the big day. One of the first things you must decide is what type of ceremony you want: a religious service in a place of worship, a civil ceremony or a bespoke celebrant-led ceremony. Once the date and venues have been confirmed, it’s a good idea to consult a toastmaster who can advise on wedding etiquette, tradition and timings. The supplier will have the management skills, tact and experience to ensure the success of any function. They’ll determine an outline plan as you want it to be, and you’ll receive full support in addressing any questions and dealing with any changes.

The convention at weddings where the couple includes both bride and groom is for the groom to stand, be seated and photographed on his bride’s right; after all, he’s her right-hand man! The suggested seating arrangement at a civil ceremony follows a similar convention. Looking towards the registrar’s table, the groom’s family sits on the right. Although the couple will not sit for long, the groom takes the first seat in the front row. Next to him sits his best man, parents, witnesses and anyone giving a reading. The bride’s family is seated on the left; the first seat is reserved for her father, then mother and bridesmaids. Again, other seats are taken by witnesses and anyone giving a reading. As for the other guests, ‘choose a seat not a side’ or ‘we’re all one family when the knot is tied’ signs work great. John Ashmele | John Ashmele FGPT www.ashmele.co.uk

www.jodihallphotography.com

www.jodihallphotography.com

A CLASS ACT

Steve says: I’m sure you've often needed to think about your guests when planning your wedding, from who to invite to the day and evening, where everyone will sit and who has a special role – the list goes on. Often, the most overlooked element is keeping guests entertained throughout the day.

Family and friends are with you for most of the day, so keeping energy levels up is important to ensure everyone enjoys the wedding. Entertainment is essential, especially during the drinks reception when official photographs are being taken. Most guests are standing around with not much to do; that’s where I come in. Being able to look after your guests with my mix and mingle magic means you don’t have to worry about them.

It’s super important to breathe, take everything in and enjoy every moment during the day. You have spent a long time planning the wedding together, but it will fly by quickly. You’ll be a little nervous but remember that everybody is there for you – nerves are good and show that you care. Realise you have support all around you like no other. Steve Rowe | Steve Rowe Magic www.steverowemagic.co.uk

NOW THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT

Gemma says: When planning your wedding entertainment, be sure to book a professional company. It can be easy to cut a corner regarding entertainment, but a true expert will have years of experience having spent time and money mastering their craft to give you a memorable performance.

Why not surprise guests with a spectacular performance with The Bel Canto Singing Waiters? The performers will get the party started with their fantastic vocals and exciting energy. They start the day blending into the background, appearing to be waitressing staff while secretly waiting for their moment to shine with a personalised and tailored performance just for you.

I got married a few years ago at the end of 2019, just before the pandemic hit. The best advice I could share with you is to be as prepared and organised as possible in the months, weeks and days leading up to your big day. That way, you can be more relaxed on the day, knowing everything has been taken care of. While waiting for my make-up artist to arrive, I sat on the bed in the bridal suite sipping a cold glass of bubbly when our florist arrived with my bouquet. Her words were, ‘Wow, I’ve never seen a bride as relaxed as you look!’ So don’t be afraid to delegate those last few jobs, ask for help when needed and slow down enough to enjoy every moment. Gemma Turner | The Bel Canto Singing Waiters www.gemmaturner.co.uk

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