HOT TOPIC

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Our experts answer your burning questions

PICTURE PERFECT

Q We’re having a small, intimate wedding. How can we make sure we get amazing photos, while including our small guest list? In the last year I’ve photographed more intimate weddings than ever before, with guest lists of just six to 30 people. Small weddings often give you more control over your day, resulting in a relaxed feel and beautifully natural photos. There’s no need for a long list of group shots with endless aunts and uncles, instead you can take the time to be with your close family and friends.

With a small group, I like to involve everyone in a confetti shot by having a semi-circle of guests with you in the middle to create a petal storm; this also works well with sparklers in the evening. You can use the extra time to go off with your photographer to take some lovely couple portraits that you’ll treasure forever. You could even head to a special place that means something to you both. You might like to consider splitting the time for portraits – one half just after the ceremony and the second half later in the day close to sunset.

Lisa Kershaw | Drawn by Light Photography | https://drawnbylightphotography.co.uk

BY ARRANGEMENT

Q We’re having a classic country house wedding in summer. What floral styles will create a timelessly romantic feel? The country house style is so gorgeous, and one of our favourites when it comes to flowers! A style we’d suggest to suit this are mini meadows. They’re so versatile and be used anywhere from aisle décor and table centrepieces to large versions with more height to sit in front of the top table, which gives the impression of you both sitting in a cottage garden-style meadow.

The blooms we find best for this look are British seasonal flowers, which is perfect for summer as we are right in the middle of our growing season. There’s an amazing selection to choose from, including delphiniums, sweet peas, garden roses and late-summer dahlias.

https://drawnbylightphotography.co.uk

Q My partner and I can’t find the perfect style of wedding rings. My friend suggested having them designed, but what’s involved in the process? Having your rings designed is such a special and romantic experience. Your wedding rings are something you’ll keep forever, which is why we believe it’s so important to get them right.

The first step is getting some ideas of what you’d like – check out magazines and Pinterest for this. Even if the perfect ring doesn’t already exist, we can work with you to understand exactly what you want. Next, we’ll invite you for an initial consultation to discuss everything from design ideas to metals and gem stones.

Your ideas are sent to our expert ring designers who will work with you to sketch them up. After approving the design, a 3D render and wax model will be sent to you for final approval before your rings are handcrafted here in the UK. No matter how many changes you require, a new design will be created for you. The result is rings that you’ll be proud to wear during a lifetime of happiness together.

Ellie Clark | Joshua James Jewellery www.joshuajamesjewellery.co.uk

DRESSED TO THRILL

Q We’re having a glamorous black-tie wedding. What dress styles and accessories will make me look like an A-lister? What immediately springs to mind with this theme is men in dinner jackets, limitless champagne served in crystal saucers and super-glam women in beautiful designer dresses. Of course, this is all the stuff of movies. However, you can easily replicate this look without the high-end price tag, and there are some fabulous British designers out there that would be perfect to help you achieve this style.

The dress should be clean-cut and beautifully structured in a luxurious fabric with elegance at its core. The glamour can be added with an up do hairstyle and dramatic yet sophisticated make-up. Finish it off with statement accessories to bring the sparkle for your own high-society wedding!

Kerensa Dyson | Bijou Bridal Boutique | www.bijoubridalboutique.co.uk

by Alan Hannah Dinah

FINDING THE ONE

Q What factors do we need to consider before booking our wedding venue? ♥ Budget. Is the venue in budget and what extras do you need to consider?

Does it offer discounts for midweek or out-of-season dates? If you’re willing to compromise on the date, your dream venue may be in budget. ♥ Package. If you’re looking for a bespoke wedding rather than a set package, then check the venue offers the flexibility to do this. For example, can you choose your own caterer and suppliers? ♥ Location. Is the setting suitable for you and your guests? If people will be travelling there, make sure there is plenty of accommodation

nearby. It’s worth making sure that there are lots of idyllic views for your photographs, and if you want a peaceful setting, listen out for any busy roads. ♥ Style. Does the venue fit with your style? Is the décor to your taste?

If you’re dressing the venue, will your theme look good in the space? ♥ The wow factor. When you visit the venue, you should be able to imagine yourselves getting married there. Many couples know instantly if they’ve found the one.