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Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas

https://graceandtheheart.wordpress.com We’re just starting our big-day journey, and neither of us know what we should look for when booking a venue. What should we keep in mind when looking at different properties?

CREATE THE PERFECT DAY

Planning a wedding can seem quite daunting when you first start, so don’t feel like you’re the only ones feeling unsure.

When it comes to finding a venue, consider the more practical elements. Knowing your guest list and the style of venue you’re after will help narrow down your options. For example, you might want a classic, modern, quirky or relaxed-styled property.

Once you have shortlisted a few venues, consider the different packages on offer and check if they include everything you want or if you would be paying for more than you need. Don’t be afraid to ask the teams many questions as they’re there to help make the day perfect.

Fixed packages can get tricky, and that’s why we offer fully bespoke options at Woburn Safari Park to allow you to personalise the day to suit any individual needs. Sarah Turnham | Woburn Safari Park www.woburnsafari.co.uk/weddings

DREAMY BACKDROPS

Choosing your wedding venue should be near the top of your priority list as once it’s booked, everything else will be easier to plan.

It would be best to consider whether you’re looking to hold your whole day in one place or intend to have your ceremony and reception at separate venues. Think about how many people you intend to invite and what sort of theme you have in mind for the day.

Next, decide if you want a location near your hometown, where you live now or where most of your guests will be travelling from. Also, think about how flexible you need the venue to be in terms of catering and entertainment.

Lastly, get an idea of the budget you’ll be working with so that you don’t book a venue out of your price range.

With these considerations, it’s then a lot easier to list the most suitable venues that fit your requirements. Contact each property to obtain their brochures and arrange a viewing appointment. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anything that isn’t clear or if you have an unusual request as no two weddings are the same. Kerry Mavris | Ware Priory www.warepriory.co.uk

I love lace and want to incorporate it into my gown. Do you have any suggestions for doing this without making the design look old-fashioned? Using lace doesn’t always mean you’ll have an old fashioned or outdated design; in fact, you can still have a modern and stylish style using delicate or bold-style lace.

If you’re a modern bride who wants a fresh look using this fabric, wear a fitted or A-line dress with a lace bodice and a plain skirt with pleating or slits for a super modern style.

Many statement designs with lace are available for those who love bohemian gowns. These often have a darker lining colour such as latte, mocha or nude shades to make the pattern pop.

Lace has become even more feminine over the last few years with floral designs, which are a big trend for 2022 weddings. Many designers from Pronovias to Morilee reinterpreted this traditional fabric in a new modern and fashionable way in their latest collections. We love the added design of 3D flowers over floral lace to make a statement and add texture plus dimension to gowns. Charlotte Izzard-Cook | Lotte Rose Bridal Boutique www.lotterosebridal.co.uk

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LOVE IS IN THE HAIR

I want to do something creative with my long and straight hair, but I’m not sure what style to go for. Do you have any suggestions? When choosing a hairstyle for your special day, it’s important to try a few different styles at your hair trial. If you have long and straight hair that doesn’t hold a curl very well, a good option would be a relaxed boho plait to help create texture and movement in your hair. You can have a few pieces out to frame the face or have it all entirely back; always explore your options and try to find out what style you’re most comfortable with. If a relaxed boho look isn’t for you, another good option would be an elegant and sleek bun, which can be tight and neat or exaggerated – what an excellent way to show off the dress’s neckline! Sade Morland Sade Morland Studios www.sademorlandstudios.co.uk We’re feeling anxious about having our photos taken on our wedding day, but we want a lovely album to look back on. Can you offer us some advice? The photographs from your wedding are one of the only things you can keep as a constant reminder of your special day. I would urge anyone reluctant to hire a professional photographer to think really carefully about their decision.

I was a very nervous bride and was uncomfortable being the centre of attention. However, the wedding day itself was such a joyful occasion that I soon forgot about the photographer and that everyone would be looking at me. I just enjoyed the day surrounded by the people I loved the most.

As a photographer, I’m very sensitive to nerves and always stay as inconspicuous as possible to make couples feel comfortable and confident. If the idea of having your photos taken fills you with dread, don’t put yourselves through endless formal images. Instead, find a photographer who will take lots of natural photos of you having fun or during a quiet and romantic moment with your new husband or wife. Sarah Whyte | Purple Kite Photography www.purplekitephotography.com

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We are a Hertfordshire based caterer that focuses on ensuring that our clients have a great time at their events. We use quality local ingredients in our cooking, source interesting drinks to excite you and your guests, we serve with a smile and we’re always there to help when our clients need us.

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natalie@sokafood.co.uk | 07983 727666 | Instagram @sokafood

Hi, we’re Michelle and Lee the owners of Monty’s Gin bar. We offer a Luxury & Unique Mobile bar hire experience, our bar hire can be tailorable to your needs, and can provide everything from a cash bar to a fully catered wedding drinks package service. We are a family run business and Monty’s has been a labour of love from the whole Moynes family. It has been designed, built and crafted by us and our name Monty’s has come from our own little Cavapoo dog Monty.

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