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www.blushingbridephotography.com EXPERT ADVICE

Stellar wedmin advice from those in the know READY, SET, WED!

I’m not sure whether I want photos captured in the morning while we’re getting ready. What would you recommend, is it a good idea?

I think bridal preparation is a huge part of the day and defi nitely a must when it comes to documenting your wedding. I usually start the morning by capturing all of the lovely details such as the dresses, shoes, fl owers and jewellery – all the bits and pieces my brides might have lost sleep over! But more importantly, these images showcase a love shared. Whether its a mum, sister or bestie, those present for this inner circle are the people the bride loves most in the world... barring the one she’s about to marry of course!

As well as the bride tribe we usually have the hair and make-up specialists in the room too. All the bride needs to do is relax and enjoy the pampering, so champagne corks are often fl ying, while love and laughter is on tap. It really is the best girly sleepover, without the sleep. Add to that the emotional scene of revealing the wedding dress to dad and it’s the stuff movies are made of. For when the doors fi nally open, that means the bride and her party are ready, and the day can begin. It’s so very exciting.

Lee Gordon | Blushing Bride Photography www.blushingbridephotography.com

BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS

Faux or fresh fl owers, which should I opt for and why?

Considering the beauty and opulence fl owers add to your wedding day, they’re a huge element of the planning process. So, along with colour and design, it’s not surprising you’ve found yourself asking about the benefi ts of fresh versus faux. There’s no denying that fresh blooms are beautiful. Their myriad forms, colours and scent cannot be truly replicated by their artifi cial counterparts. However, there are a few points to consider before you make the fi nal decision. ❤ Cost. Fresh fl owers are becoming more expensive due to global supply issues and uncertain weather patterns. If you’d like the wow factor, but lack the budget, faux centrepieces can be hired at a fraction of the cost. ❤ Seasonality. Many favourite wedding varieties such as peonies have a very limited season. By opting for faux fl owers you can choose the ones you love whatever the time of year. ❤ Allergies. If you or your partner suffer from hay fever, faux is the way to go. ❤ Quality and freshness. Good quality faux blooms can look and feel very natural as quality has improved greatly over the years. In fact, it’s unlikely your guests will be able to tell the difference.

However, their fresh equivalents can wilt in the heat and are susceptible to bruising. ❤ Weight. Artifi cial fl owers are much lighter than fresh and don’t require a water source making them ideal for garlands, arches and hanging installations. ❤ Keepsakes. Your faux bridal bouquet can be treasured forever. Finally... why not mix and match? My recommendation would be to have a fresh fl ower bouquet with faux table centres and décor – the best of both worlds.

LIGHT OF MY LIFE

We’ve heard that lighting is a key element in styling a wedding. Can you tell us more?

This is very true – never underestimate the power of lighting! It really is the best aspect to focus on. Especially with a dry hire venue that presents you with a totally blank canvas, as the right lighting will finish it off perfectly. For instance, a chandelier will create a romantic, traditional look, whereas festoon lighting is ideal for a festival-themed wedding. Fairylights strung across the ceiling can bring a starry vibe, and hanging light bulbs will work brilliantly with an industrial, modern feel. Candlelight is beautiful and works wonders when creating an intimate, romantic feel. Even if you have a guest list of 200 or more, it’ll still lend the space that cosy, welcoming ambience.

Melanie Revell-Leaman | Your Story Events www.yourstoryevents.co.uk

COUNTRYSIDE CLASS

What floral centrepieces would best suit a rustic-themed wedding?

Why not use wood slices stacked on top of each other to give the tables a rustic feel? These can then be decorated with woodland-themed flowers and foliage such as anemones, foxgloves, Solomon’s seal, narcissi, ferns and ivy. Depending on the time of year, you could even use plants and flowering blubs tucked into the display. Moss can be utilised to hide pots and soil, and by incorporating pine cones, bark pieces, decorative twigs or lichen you can create a lovely textured scene that really looks the part. Small log slices can be used on guest tables with bigger versions stacked up around the venue framing the doors or placed in a bare corner.