The Knot ebook 2014 Australia

E-BOOK

10

biggest things brides forget

YOUR

wedding plann覺ng BIBLE plus! pick the perfect colour palette

your wedding & sharing the big day with friends & family is now just a click away with MY WEBSITE

NOV EMB ER 15, 2016

• 887 DAYS TO GO!

Simply log on to THEKNOT.COM.AU to create your own free personalised MY WEBSITE and you’ll be the most organised bride around!

This new tool allows you to: - build your own wedding website - customise the colours and details - add ceremony & reception information - upload photos - list your registry - include a guest book - collect RSVPs

@ TheKnot.com.au/MyWebsite

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contents

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Your Wedding Planning Bible

The New Colour Rules

Secrets Wedding Planners Know Cakes That Party

14

Quizz: Your Wedding Style Blooms By Season

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10

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Your Wedding Planning Bible Freeze Frame

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44

Personalise Your Vows

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Shocking Facts About Your Guests

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Wedding Hairstyles We Love Pretty In Pink

The 10 Biggest Things Brides Forget Reception Style

The Tux Decoded

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Steal our cover style With all the trimmings, a traditional gown reaches a whole new level. Martina Liana slim A-line gown with sweetheart bodice, tiered lace and silk skirt and satin ribbon beaded sash, $3,295, from EssenseDesigns.com; Fletcher & Grace “Legacy” pearl and crystal earrings, $95, from TheWeddingBoutique.com. au; “Misumi” pendant necklace, $149, Georgini.com.au; “Mrs White Dress” lace and silk heels, $259, PeepToeShoes.com.au

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the new colour rules Establishing a colour scheme will help define your wedding style and unify all your details. To help you pick the perfect palette, we’ve mapped out everything you need to know about bringing colour into your wedding.

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consider textures

You can bring colour into your reception space in so many ways beyond the obvious lighting, linens and floral arrangements. Think of wooden tables, translucent ghost chairs and glam menu cards as part of the palette.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE LARSON

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BY KRISTIN KOCH

Look beyond colour swatches for hues that work well together. Something as simple as colourful macarons can drive your wedding palette.

gold & cream & pink Gold has a timeless feel.

Touches of this shimmery shade take a romantic pink and white palette to luxe new levels.

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PHOTOGRAPHY CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT BY THISBE GRACE, STACY REEVES, KARENBUCKLE.COM.AU, LARK PHOTO, KRISTEN TAYLOR; CAKE BY WELSHLADY.COM.AU

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follow your inspiration

try this colour scheme

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If you do rely on a traditional colour chart, there really is a science behind which colours naturally work well together. Once you know the rules, you’ll understand when and how you can break them.

orange & grey

hot pink & soft pink

ACCENT NEUTRALS WITH BRIGHTS Pairing a single neutral

OF THE SAME HUE Don’t assume

a colour combo has to be two distinct hues. Staying within one colour family is a beautiful option.

Try pinks or greens.

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(grey or silver) with a colour that pops—say, orange or yellow—is an easy way to keep brights feeling sophisticated.

COMBINE VARYING SHADES

aqua & cherry red

PAIR OPPOSITES The trick with opposites is either to choose softer shades (light yellow and dusty lilac) or to use one of the colours sparingly.

STICK TO WHITES White is a natural

for weddings, and more planners are opting for all-white— it’s clean, elegant and classic.

cream & off-white

PHOTOGRAPHY CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT BY CORBIN GURKIN PHOTOGRAPHY, JUSTIN & MARY PHOTOGRAPHY, ANTONIS ACHILLEOS, BOUTWELL STUDIO

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know the basics

Not long ago, everyone was weaving bright pops of colour into their wedding. Now, that’s

white & silver & scarlet A fresh alternative to black, silver acts as a neutral, grounding the deep red. The result: a polished, modern look.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH MESSINA, ANTONIS ACHILLEOS; BOUQUET BY CHANELEROSE.COM; STATIONERY BY PAPYRUSDESIGN.COM

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go deep

try this colour scheme

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Far from basic, black lends sophistication to any palette—and it’s more versatile than you think. Depending on what you pair it with, it can evoke a modern, glam or romantic vibe.

sage & white & black Soften the stark contrast of a black-andwhite scheme with an in-between hue like this muted green to create a fresh, elegant feel.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLUMENTHAL PHOTOGRAPHY, RED RIBBON STUDIO (2), NERIDAMCMURRAY.COM.AU; STATIONERY BY POPPISEEDDESIGNS.COM.AU

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dare to use black

try this colour scheme

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add a surprise factor To give your wedding a unique twist, look for unexpected ways to infuse colour into your celebration—from the soft and subtle to the vividly stunning.

CEILING COLOUR

STANDOUT SEATING

If draping the ceilings in coloured fabric feels like a bit much, liven up the space with bright Japanese lanterns.

Coloured table linens are an obvious way to play up your palette.

But for a more modern feel, hire chairs or slipcovers in your wedding hues.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT BY TODD FRANCE, LEO PATRONE, ELIZABETH MESSINA

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POSH PAIR Bring a fun touch

of colour into traditional wedding wear with vibrant socks or shoes. Just be sure to coordinate your footwear for that classic shoe shot.

Get even more wedding-colour-palette ideas and tips at TheKnot.com.au/wedding-colours

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secrets wedding planners know

BY SUSAN WAITS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEN KROLL PHOTOGRAPHY

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There are certain details—some big (pinspot lighting the centrepieces) and some small (colouring-in books for the kids)—that really can make or break your day.

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get a professional planner

Planning a wedding really is a full-time job.

And you may already have one. Even if you want to do most of the “heavy lifting” yourself, you can hire an à la carte planner to help with specific areas you don’t have the time or talent for (like scouting and hiring suppliers). Decorating not your strong suit?

Event designers specialise in bringing your vision to life.

Got it all covered? A day-of coordinator will handle the scheduling and setup, and make sure everything runs smoothly—so you can just enjoy your day.

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hire stylish seating

Picture this: Your photographer steps back to get a wide-angle shot of the ceremony or the seated dinner, and the thing that really stands out is the mass of boring (or, even worse, ugly) chairs.

For something that’s so prevalent in your space, make sure the chairs reflect your style as much as all the other details do. If you don’t love the seats your venue offers, you can hire some that fit your style, like chiavari or ghost chairs. Or dress the ones that are there in slipcovers.

3 capture all the action

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deck out your escort cards

Escort cards may not strike you as being the most important element of your day, but these seemingly small details aren’t just for helping guests find their tables.

They’re another way to play up your wedding style and even create a stunning focal point. From calligraphed cards surrounding a gorgeous arrangement to apples tagged with each guest’s name or tiny personalised bundles of lavender tied with string, making the extra effort to welcome each guest to the reception in style will let them know how much you appreciate them.

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Although your photos are a very important part of documenting your day, there are certain things still photographs just can’t capture—your dad’s heartfelt speech or the choreographed moves you performed for your first dance. And there are moments you’ll inevitably miss that video can bring back to life.

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5 make a game plan for the kids The under-12 set will have trouble holding still during even a quick 30-minute ceremony and staying seated during dinner and toasts. Ask an usher to hand out colouring-in books and crayons at the ceremony.

For the reception, consider a children’s table with kid-friendly food and games. Or hire a sitter and set up a kids’ room nearby with movies, pillows and blankets, and popcorn.

Though guest accommodation and travel expenses aren’t your responsibility, you should make getting to your wedding and finding a convenient (and affordable) place to stay easy. Negotiate discounts on room blocks at two or three nearby hotels (covering a range of prices) about six months beforehand. Include the booking information on your wedding website, along with details about the nearest airports, hire-car locations and any additional wedding-weekend activities, so guests can book their flights and rooms well in advance.

together 7 put welcome bags

Another way to show out-of-town guests your appreciation: Greet them at their hotel

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decorate the entrances

First impressions are everything. The entry to your venue is the first thing guests will see. “Decorate the entrance to add a bit of drama or just to create synergy with your styling—from flowers on pedestals to floral archways, candles and decorated potted trees,” says Jennifer Kennedy, director of Bells N Whistles Events. “You could also string fairy lights at the entrance, design a welcome sign or use fabric draping or bunting—the possibilities are endless.”

with a goodie bag (or basket) filled with snacks and other essentials (like sunscreen or insect repellent for a summertime celebration), an itinerary of the weekend’s activities and a list of your favourite places to eat and things to do in the area. For that final special touch, write a personal note thanking each guest for travelling to be there for your special day.

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concoct special virgin drinks

Don’t forget to make a few mocktails for those who might not imbibe (or are driving home later). If you’re serving a signature cocktail, offer a nonalcoholic version too, so everyone has a special drink to toast you with. Some fun ideas: faux mojitos, virgin cosmos and mock mint juleps.

a standout 10 create favour display

The secret to successful favours is all in the packaging and presentation. Pique guests’ interest with pretty packaging and an impressive display, and even run-of-the-mill chocolates will seem extra-special.

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test the acoustics

Make sure your guests can see—and hear—your ceremony. If you need to seat guests more than 10 rows back from the altar or podium, hire speakers, a stage and a mic.

(Your ceremony musicians may be able to provide any equipment you’ll need.)

rides 12 arrange for everyone

As the hosts, your number-one priority is your guests’ comfort and safety. Although providing transportation isn’t required, it’s a really nice way to take care of guests. Make it

PHOTOGRAPHY FROM TOP: BOUTWELL STUDIOS, LAURIE BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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reserve room blocks for guests

easy for everyone to let loose (and safely indulge in your signature cocktails) by providing rides to and from the reception for all your guests. If you don’t have room in your budget to shuttle everyone around, print the phone numbers of local cab companies on cards and leave them by the ceremony door. You can also hire a few taxis to wait at your reception site to take guests home at the end of the night.

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create fresh focal points

Make your party feel fresh by shifting people’s perspective. “Focal points can be simple or extravagant,” says Kennedy.

She suggests creating floral chandeliers—as big or small as you’d like— or dressing up your bridal table to set it apart from the rest.

The wedding cake can be another primary focus. “Ditch the dessert and go for a large and amazing-looking (and tasting!) cake for your reception,” says Kennedy. “It makes for a great focal point in the room.”

Now that you’ve splurged on a live band or trendy DJ, why not show them off? Draw the audience’s eyes to the stage by adding a cool backdrop or a picture-frame-like installation. Show the dance floor some love by lighting it up with your monogram or by hiring a specialty floor that lights up as guests move.

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for the cocktail hour

When your guests enter the cocktail hour, don’t greet them with silence. Remember: You’re creating an experience with your wedding, one that goes from romantic (the ceremony) to sometimes raucous (the dance party). Use your cocktail hour to segue between the two extremes and warm up your crowd with lively background music, like a jazz ensemble or a string quartet.

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hire a lighting designer

For the upgrade with the biggest impact, invest in professional lighting. “Lighting turns the ordinary into the extraordinary,” says Kathy Apostolidis of Events by Nightingales. “A soft wash (no colour) on the bridal and cake tables creates a beautiful glow for this oft-photographed area of your reception.” For a dramatic turn after dinner, Apostolidis suggests changing

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lighting colours to a twilight blue to take the evening into party mode.

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make signage

You might know the layout of your venue inside and out, but don’t assume everyone else will. Set out signs to direct guests to key spots, like the bathrooms, and to clue them in to the different dishes at a buffet, so that no one is ever left wondering— or wandering.

your cake 20 put on a pedestal

Decorate your cake table with statementmaking florals, unique linens and dramatic lighting. To give your dessert the royal treatment, set your cake on a riser for an indoor affair or cover it with a fabric-draped canopy if you’re having an outdoor party.

spruce up the hallways

With all the energy you put into dressing up the reception and ceremony spaces, don’t break the mood as soon as guests leave the room. A little extra effort to decorate the walkways—with pot plants, low flower arrangements, luminaries, glass candles or clusters of framed photos of the two of you—can make a big difference in maintaining the vibe you’ve worked so hard to set.

amp up the aisle

The reception often gets the bulk of the attention, but your ceremony helps set the tone for the rest of the day, so don’t skimp on the décor. Ask your florist to cover a canopy or archway with blooms and hanging votive candles to create a gorgeous focal point. Other ideas: Mark the altar with oversized arrangements, or line the aisle with topiaries or tall hurricane vases filled with candles.

Get more ideas from top planners at

TheKnot.com.au/reception

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set the stage

16 book musicians

cakes that party No matter what kind of celebration you’re planning, these dressed-up desserts will add to the fun.

BY VIVIEN WALSH

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAREE HOMER

ballroom party This tuxedo-inspired four-tiered cake, with its square edges, formal bows and traditional black-and-white palette, makes for a classic confection. Cake by PlanetCake.com.au. Sugar flower by SugaBlossomCakes.com.au.

LISMORE COLOURED-CRYSTAL COCKTAIL GLASSES BY WATERFORD, $599 FOR SET OF 4, WEDDINGLISTCO.COM.AU; LARABEE DOT MINI CHAMPAGNE SAUCER, KATESPADECHINA.COM.AU; BARMER TABLE FABRIC IN FADED ROSE, $42/METRE, NOCHINTZ.COM

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LES PETITE SWEETS SMALL PEDESTAL, $50, SWEETSTYLE.COM.AU; DONNA HAY FOR ROYAL DOULTON LARGE FOOTED CAKE STAND, $100, WEDDINGGIFTSDIRECT.COM.AU; PINWHEEL CAKE STAND, SWEETART.COM.AU

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cocktail party Raise your bubbles to this pair of partygoers, whose vibrant colours and playful elements lend sass to your soirée.

Macaron cake by SharonWee.com.au. Pinwheel cake by SweetArt.com.au.

retro party Looking to the past for your celebration inspiration? Add a hint of nostalgia to your cake with these angular retro accents and evocative flowers. Cake by SugaBlossomCakes.com.au.

30CM MILK GLASS CAKE STAND IN PINK, $140, SWEETSTYLE.COM.AU; BRIDAL BOUQUET BY SUSANAVERY.COM.AU

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LES DESSERTS ROUND BEADED PEDESTAL, $70, SWEETSTYLE.COM.AU; PETAL CAKE STAND, FAYECAHILL.COM.AU; VERA RADIANTE TEASAUCER BY WEDGWOOD, $50, DAVIDJONES.COM.AU; CAKE FORKS, STYLIST’S OWN

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garden party Pretty and prestigious, a garden-party wedding is not your average picnic. Bursts of blooms and other festive highlights satisfy these sophisticated social gatherings—and they’ll work in any colour. Bunting cake by PutaCakeInIt.com.au. Petal cake by FayeCahill.com.au.

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quiz

what’s your wedding style?

Start thinking about what your dream wedding looks like and what you want from your day. To help you draw up a blueprint for your perfect wedding, take this style quiz.

2 my dream wedding venue most closely resembles:

4 I’m picturing my bridesmaids in: A. Coordinating satin gowns B. Stylish black cocktail dresses C. Sundresses in a fun hue

5 pick a reception meal:

A. A grand ballroom B. A sleek warehouse conversion C. A vineyard

A. Five-course plated dinner B. Cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres C. Buffet dinner

3 for our grand reception entrance, we will:

6 for my wedding flowers, I’m envisioning:

A. Pull up in a vintage Rolls-Royce B. Cruise in on a Vespa C. Walk hand in hand

A. Lush peonies and roses B. Orchids C. Whatever’s in season

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7 my ideal honeymoon includes the following: A. Vino and romance in Venice B. Beach and culture in Bali C. Sun and margaritas in Mexico

8 if I were a drink, I’d be: A. A flute of champagne B. A martini C. A glass of pinot grigio

9 select a type of music for the reception: A. 12-piece band B. DJ C. 6-piece band

answer key TALLY YOUR ANSWERS TO FIND OUT YOUR WEDDING STYLE. MOSTLY As: CLASSIC

“Good taste never goes out of style” is your motto. You want a traditional and timeless feel for your wedding.

MOSTLY BS: CONTEMPORARY

You prefer a minimalist approach with sleek lines and sophisticated hues to keep your wedding from feeling too...well, wedding-y.

MOSTLY CS: CASUAL-CHIC

Frill-free and pared down but still sophisticated—your outdoor wedding will be just like you. Think: natural and understated yet elegant.

Now that you know your wedding style, it’s time to start planning. Our site not only walks you through every last detail, but also provides hundreds of photo galleries for inspiration.

10 pick a first-dance song: A. A classic like “At Last” by Etta James B. A unique choice like a Beatles tune C. A song that has special meaning to us

Find more tools to help you plan your day at TheKnot.com.au/checklist

PHOTOGRAPHY FROM TOP: LISA LEFKOWITZ PHOTOGRAPHY, AKIL BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY; SOURCE: THE KNOT COMPLETE GUIDE TO WEDDINGS

1 my bridal style icon is: A. Grace Kelly B. Bianca Jagger C. Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy

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1

2 2 3

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blooms by season

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winter 4

The trick to getting the freshest, most vibrant flowers is letting the season be your guide.

Here’s what’s available when. BY SARAH NEWELL

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1 2

1 3

6 3

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEVON JARVIS. WITH THANKS TO MAGNAFLORA, NYC; FOR SIMILAR SEASONAL BOUQUETS, TRY LOVELY BRIDAL BLOOMS, LOVELYBRIDALBLOOMS.COM

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autumn

spring

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summer

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4 5 4

autumn

winter

spring

summer 1 lisianthus 2 peony

1 belladonna lily

1 phalaenopsis orchid

1 anemone

2 nerine 3 vanda orchid

2 freesia 3 calla lily

2 singapore orchid

3 snapdragon

4 gloriosa lily

4 fringed tulip

3 hydrangea 4 sweet pea

4 phlox 5 ranunculus

5 celosia

5 narcissus

5 veronica 6 tulip

6 leonardo da vinci rose

Get more top wedding flower tips at TheKnot.com.au/flowers

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the biggest things brides forget With all the planning you’re doing right now, it’s hard to imagine there’s any detail you haven’t thought of, but trust us, there are certain to-dos that somehow never make it to the list. Here are the top items we hear about all the time. BY MEREDITH BODGAS

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We’re not talking about the honeymoon here (who would forget to plan that?). We mean you need to decide what you’re doing immediately following your wedding. If you don’t want the party to come to an end with the last dance, you should pick a late-night spot in or near one of the guest hotels. If privacy isn’t all that important to you, book your wedding-night room in the same hotel as your guests. If you just want to get to bed, we strongly suggest you book a room elsewhere.

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picking someone to take your things home after the reception

Your gifts, mementos (think toasting flutes, cake topper, unity candle and guest book) and any leftover food, booze or cake need a trusty escort to get them home. Choose

a person and let her know about her responsibility. And you may want to donate your centrepieces. Nursing homes typically accept flowers, but call at least a few days before the wedding to find out when someone can drop off the arrangements.

If you’re changing out of your gown before you head to your hotel room, you’ll need a person to take it home, too—even if you have no plans to get it professionally preserved, you don’t want to leave it behind! Make sure there’s a hanger and a garment bag on hand (the one your dress came with will do!) so your gown stays in tiptop shape.

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decorating the other areas

Of course, no guest will walk out of your wedding if the bathrooms and cocktail bar are left bare. But with all the energy that’s put into dressing up the reception and ceremony spaces, you might want to put in the small extra effort to give these spots the décor they deserve. A few candles will do the trick. Or take things just a step further: Include bowls of colourful mints on the bar, or dress up some baskets with essential toiletries—safety pins, deodorant, gum—in the bathrooms.

buying gifts for the wedding party When gifts are constantly coming to your door, it’s hard to remember that you also need to dole some out! So who makes it on the gift list?

Everyone who plays a role in your day—yes, your parents and future in-laws too. You don’t need to make a big presentation. Just make sure you give everyone their gift before or at the rehearsal dinner.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GETTYIMAGES.COM.AU

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making postwedding plans

out your 5 figuring day-after plans

If you’re leaving for your honeymoon straight from your hotel, make advance arrangements for a car service to take you from the hotel to the airport, and be sure you bring any luggage you want with you on your trip (and a passport if you need it). If you’re not going on your honeymoon right away, then you need to know where you’re going the morning after your wedding (to your home or your parents’ house?) and how you’re getting there. Park your car at the hotel before your wedding if you can, or ask a friend to come pick you up and bring you where you want to go the next day. Don’t schedule your ride too early— with any luck, you’ll be exhausted.

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choosing how to gather the gifts

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE WEDDING & PORTRAIT DESIGN

7 bringing your overnight bag

If you’re allowed to check in to your hotel room early—and you don’t personally need to be there to officially check in—pick someone to drop your overnight bag at your hotel before your ceremony starts. A guest who’s staying at the same place will more than likely be happy to do this for you, since they’re going to have to check in anyway! If your things can’t arrive sooner than you, ask a bridesmaid to be responsible for bringing your bag to the wedding and finding a safe spot for it in the bridal suite. Even easier, if you’ll have the same car or limo for the entire day and night, opt to keep your stuff in the boot.

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deciding where everything goes

Besides planning where all of your guests sit, you need to figure out where you’ll put programs, escort and place cards, menus (if you’re having them) and bomboniere. Once you pick who will set these out—your wedding coordinator, bridesmaids and banquet managers are all good choices—give them clear instructions on where they should go (one bomboniere on every other plate at tables, for instance, if you want couples to share the takeaways, or all of them in two baskets by the exits if you want guests to pick them up on the way out). Also, if your venue’s staff will be setting out these items, find out when you can drop everything off—some venues want everything a couple of days before your wedding; others won’t take anything ’til the actual day.

the legal 9 satisfying requirements

Your marriage certificate is one of the most important aspects of your day; after all, it’s the reason you threw a wedding in the first place! After all the hours of planning, you’re probably more focused on the party

afterwards than on the legal side of your nuptials, but without making sure all of the official paperwork and details are in order, all the stress and money spent will be for nothing. First things first: Find out the necessary legal requirements for getting married, such as time frames and authorised celebrants. Check with your state’s or territory’s Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages; you can find a list of the individual Australian registries at Australia.gov.au.

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making and confirming itineraries

Check in with every supplier, from the limo driver to the linen-hire company, a week before your wedding. Many of your pros will beat you to it, so be ready with times and locations when you get a call. Send agendas to your bridesmaids and groomsmen too—how else will they know what time you’re taking photos? If someone in the bridal party is notorious for being late, start their schedule half an hour early just in case.

Get a personalised to-do list at

TheKnot.com.au/checklist

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There are three times when guests are likely to thrust gifts at you: while they’re in the receiving line, during your table visits and when they leave for the night.

Designate a person—one of your bridesmaids, your mum or your groom’s mum—to collect envelopes, and have her by your side with a large but inconspicuous bag when you’re saying hello and goodbye to your guests. That person should also keep an eye out for guests who seem a little lost at the reception—they may be trying to figure out where they should put their gifts! If you decide instead to have a wishing well, box or other stationary receptacle, tell a few people to subtly spread the word. Don’t ask your DJ to make an announcement, though.

That comes off as being in-your-face.

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reception style From wedding venues and styles to décor and dancing, find out how your celebration measures up. BY KRISTIN KOCH

96

7 0

THE NUMBER OF SONGS YOU CAN SQUEEZE INTO A FOUR-HOUR RECEPTION

50 %

average number of guests

the likelihood that one of your dads will attempt to do a split on the dance floor

2,321

the number of hours spent stressing over the reception

1OF 5

of couples have a black-tie dress code

“hi”

THE AVERAGE RECEPTION LENGTH

17% of brides and grooms manage to say “hi” to all of their guests

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4 hours

18%

612

the average number of cocktails served during a wedding

COUPLES INCLUDE PURPLE IN THEIR COLOUR PALETTE

25%

according to Pantone, there are no fewer than 116 shades of pink Check out other couples’ receptions at

TheKnot.com.au/realweddings

of couples have themed weddings

59%

of Aussie brides say they will not cut costs on reception venue

YOUR

wedding plannıng BIBLE Ah, the end of the night...there’s so much to do before you get to this point.

No worries—we got the top wedding pros to share their planning secrets.

EDITED BY KRISTIN KOCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA HUBBARD & MAREE HOMER STYLING BY MATTHEW GLEASON & CHELSEA TROMANS

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the cake

It’s the star of your reception.

Here’s how to make sure yours really takes the cake.

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make sure it’s edible Not all food colourings taste great. Colours like red, green and blue won’t taste as good as paler shades and whites.

So use softer tones for the base and add colour with the accents.

2

use your eyes too Of course the

3

have fun with flavours

4

dress up your confection

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Chocolate and vanilla aren’t your only options—some couples even order two flavours to mix it up. Just keep the season in mind: Heavier combos like red velvet with cream cheese filling fit a winter wedding, while vanilla cake with raspberry filling is great for summer. It’s a good idea to start with the cake flavour and then pick the filling.

The options are endless, from flowers, ribbons and polka dots to monograms, whimsical patterns and graphic designs. Keep your wedding style in mind (formal, casual, tropical...) when choosing the design, and don’t overdo it—leaving blank space is key.

5

finish it off right Toppers are

making a comeback. Pick one that uniquely represents you, like a nod to your culture, job or pet.

the cake curator Priya Maclure, owner of Sugar Pot, www.SugarPot.com.au

cake conflicts

Simple solutions for when your sweet tooths don’t align.

flavour

design

type

YOU WANT

YOU WANT

YOU WANT

Vanilla

Simple and all-white

Cupcakes

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

Chocolate

A colourful pattern

Cake

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

Vanilla frosting with chocolate filling (or vice versa). Or, alternating layers of flavours.

Have a groom’s cake and a wedding cake so you each get to choose the design you want.

Have both. Order a smaller cake to cut and serve, and set up a cupcake bar, too.

CAKE BY SUGAR POT; WITH THANKS TO VICTORIA ZAGAMI OF MADE IN HEAVEN CAKES PREVIOUS SPREAD: DESSERT PLATES BY CASKATA; CUTLERY, DRINKWARE AND PERLES PLATINE PLATES BY MICHAELCFINA.COM

taste matters, but don’t ignore the presentation. The frosting should be flat, not bubbled or warped; the colour should be consistent, without gradation; the tier shapes should be obvious; and the banding should be even.

the music

Your reception music can make or break your party. Read on for the secrets to a rockin’ bash.

1

get the inside scoop

Your suppliers work hundreds of weddings every year, so they’re one of the best resources for finding a great band or DJ. Use them!

2

copy your friends...or not

3

rethink the band vs. DJ debate

4

mix it up Listen, Motown and

5

set some guidelines

Start with what you did and didn’t like about the music at your friends’ weddings.

These days, DJ’s can offer upscale, polished presentations for black-tie parties, and bands can easily fit with a club-like venue. So zero in on the style and the music that are important to you to help you decide.

And if budget isn’t a factor, hire both.

Give your bandleader or DJ a list of favourite songs, artists and styles of music and, most importantly, a do-not-play collection. If a particular song isn’t in your band’s repertoire, ask if they’ll learn it.

Tons of bands will perform new hits and personalise your playlist.

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give ’em what they want

A good party should take on a life of its own and develop naturally. So while personalisation, style and presentation are important, making sure guests are enjoying themselves is key. Your music maker should be able to cue in to what guests like and play more of that.

the music master Gus Stephenson, wedding entertainment director of Funkified Entertainment, Funkified.com.au

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WITH THANKS TO MICHAEL TAYLOR OF STAR TALENT INC; CHAMPAGNE FLUTE BY MICHAELCFINA.COM

Sinatra are great, but it’s gonna get old after an hour. It’s hard to make any one music style work for four-plus hours. Variety is the spice of the dance floor, so incorporate old and new songs and different genres and tempos.

band battles

So you’re a little country, and he’s a little rock’n’roll?

Here’s how to settle on a playlist that’s a bit of both.

playlist

music maker

first dance

YOU WANT

YOU WANT

YOU WANT

Country

Band

Classic

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

Rock

DJ

New

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

A mix of both will keep things exciting. There’s only so much Garth or U2 anyone can hear.

Go with both, or try a band with a more hip feel that can play everything a DJ can.

Play a classical version of a new song, or put together a compilation of the two songs.

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the food

Tips for designing a menu everyone will love.

1

pick your venue first

Many venues have preferred lists of caterers (companies they have special relationships with) and may charge extra if you use an outside supplier.

2

ask about the prep Find out what’s

3

think seasonally Local and

premade or if anything’s frozen before the event. While your caterer will obviously need to prep some of the food ahead of time, the whole meal shouldn’t come out of a freezer bag.

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4

match the mood While pre-plated dishes may seem stuffy for a more casual wedding, they suit a formal ballroom setting. Serving food family-style creates a warm, intimate feel and encourages mingling and conversation.

5

personalise the menu Like every other detail about the day, your menu should be all about you. Serve your favourite foods, whether it’s sausage rolls, cupcakes or tacos. Just keep your guests in mind too: You may love bruschetta and sashimi, but your Aunt Sally might not, so try to mix in a few standard crowd-pleasers, too.

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food fights

Don’t share the same taste? How to serve a meal you’ll both enjoy.

don’t fall into a flavour funk

Picking similar flavours for all your dishes can get boring (and tedious for guests who don’t love the tastes). Work with your chef to create a menu that offers a variety of flavours so everyone has something they enjoy—including you. the cuisine connoisseur Sarah French, director of Sarah French Boutique Catering and Events, SarahFrench.com.au

type

menu

YOU WANT

YOU WANT

style YOU WANT

Cocktail party

A roast dinner

Buffet

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

Sit-down dinner

Surf and turf

White-glove service

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

Set up food stations and tables and chairs, so guests can eat, mingle and dance.

Serve your family’s famous roast for dinner, and mix surf and turf into your appetisers.

A mix of family-style dishes that guests serve themselves and waiter-served plates.

FOOD BY SARAH FRENCH BOUTIQUE CATERING AND EVENTS; WITH THANKS TO MICHAEL STUART STEIFMAN OF MICHAEL STUART NY

seasonal ingredients tend to taste better and cost less, so talk to your caterer about where they source their ingredients from and what will be in-season for your wedding.

Also, keep the weather in mind: no one wants a hot, heavy soup in February, but in the middle of the winter, a warm dish will hit the spot.

bloom battles

He didn’t care about the flowers...until you mentioned the bout. Here’s the deal.

coordination YOU WANT A matching boutonnière and bouquet THEY WANT No bout THE COMPROMISE He picks the bout design; you incorporate elements from it into your bouquet.

style YOU WANT Blooms that make a statement THEY WANT A simple design THE COMPROMISE A bout with one big bloom.

materials

the bouquet

YOU WANT Fragrant, romantic THEY WANT Modern, non-frilly THE COMPROMISE A bout made of the non-floral elements from the bouquet.

Tips for picking your most important accessory for the night (besides him, of course).

1

match your style For a bouquet that’s totally you, give your florist an idea of your wardrobe and home décor.

2

incorporate colour Colour is key so that in photos, your bouquet really pops off your dress. To create more dimension, design your bouquet with a touch more colour and your maids’ with softer white and cream blooms. add texture Berries, herbs and non-

4

stick to seasonal flowers If a flower

5

diversify your blooms

6

show some stem Fully wrapping

floral elements add dimension and depth for a more interesting look.

WITH THANKS TO SIERRA & JULIET OF POPPIES & POSIES

is out-of-season, more often than not, the quality will be poorer, and it’ll be more expensive. Every season has its own gems, so trust your florist to guide you.

Traditional bouquets typically contain just one or two varieties, but adding more can create a showstopping look.

the stems detracts from the flowers’ natural beauty. Leave a bit showing at the end for an organic but elegant look.

the flower power Kate Hill, director of Kate Hill Flowers, KateHillFlowers.com.au

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3

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the stationery

It’s the first impression guests get of your wedding. Here’s how to make sure it’s a good one.

1

tie it all together Choose one element to include throughout your wedding stationery to give it a cohesive look and feel. It can be an emblem, a font style, a monogram, a pattern, a colour palette or a motif. For a romantic touch, include a quote at the bottom of the invite that’s meaningful to you. Keep in mind: While you can have a little more fun with your save-the-dates, your invitations should hint toward the formality of the day. The design elements that you choose for your invites can appear in the wedding décor, like your aisle runner, table linens or cake.

2

pick the right font Choose a type

3

be original Some ideas for making

4

keep it simple Include only minimal

5

pay attention to presentation

your suite stand out: infuse a mix of traditional and modern touches into your design and wording; have the design extend to the back of the card or envelope liner; layer your invitation on patterned cardstock.

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text on your invites so the design really pops. Put any additional info on extra enclosure cards or on your wedding website.

If you have multiple inserts, use a pocket fold that has areas to display each element, tie a ribbon around everything, or send your invites in a one-of-a-kind package, like a wooden box or a seashell, to create an immediate wow factor.

stationery spats Not exactly on the same page when it comes to the design, style or font?

printing

look

material

YOU WANT

YOU WANT

YOU WANT

Classic and simple

A cardstock suite

Letterpress

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

Funky and fun

Eco-friendly e-invites

The cheapest option

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

One picks save-thedates; the other picks invites.

Invites made of recycled paper; e-invites for the rest.

Letterpress invitations; thermography for the rest.

6 don’t forget the postage

Find stamps you love, or order customised ones to match your stationery design or wedding colours. Also, ask the post office to hand-stamp each envelope rather than running them all through the machine.

the paper pro Sara Saade and Madali Schutte, co-owners of Little Paper Pantry, LittlePaperPantry.com

STATIONERY BY LITTLE PAPER PANTRY; WITH THANKS TO LAURA CHING OF TINY PRINTS, SISTER COMPANY TO WEDDING PAPER DIVAS

style that fits your personality, or even hire a calligrapher to create a unique design that you can then print on your invites.

Your tables are the centre of the room.

Here’s how to wow guests when they walk in.

1

follow the rule of three Every

element of the décor must be repeated at least three times in order for it to “sink in.” Stick to just a few elements to repeat throughout the décor, so guests will actually notice your hard work.

2

talk to your caterer Ask what they’ll

be putting on the tables. For example, if there will be four glasses at each setting, guests won’t see a low centrepiece. To avoid crowding the tables, ask the caterer to bring new (and clear the old) utensils before each course.

5

update your centrepieces You can totally change the look of flowers by placing them in coloured or uniquely shaped vessels. Surround centrepieces with votive candles for an inexpensive way to add extra light, which makes everything look better.

the design guru Jennifer Kennedy, director of Bells N Whistles Events, BellsNWhistles.com.au

dress up your escort cards People

love to see their names (seriously—they never get sick of it!). So hiring a calligrapher to write guests’ names on the escort cards will make them feel truly welcome.

3

4

do a test-drive If you put down a

deposit, some florists will make you a sample centrepiece for free. Then borrow or rent a table setting and linens so you can see how everything looks together.

table troubles

Styles don’t exactly mesh? Here’s how to get on the same side of the table.

look

vibe

colours

YOU WANT Romantic THEY WANT Sleek THE COMPROMISE You can

YOU WANT Casual THEY WANT Formal THE COMPROMISE Meet

YOU WANT White and gold THEY WANT Navy

achieve a romantic look with any colour palette, so use his colours and your style.

in the middle with an upscale take on a more rustic theme, like a dressed-up barbecue.

and yellow

THE COMPROMISE Navy linens, gold accents and yellow floral centrepieces.

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STYLING BY BELLS N WHISTLES; FLOWERS BY BUTTERFLY PHILOSOPHY; WITH THANKS TO LINDSAY LANDMAN OF LINDSAY LANDMAN EVENTS

the tablescape

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wardrobe wars

How to solve your wedding wear debates.

the dress

Tips for finding the dress of your dreams.

1

focus on the silhouette Finding

the right shape for your body is paramount. Think about your evening wear and what works for you. Also, consider what you do and don’t want to highlight.

If you have a tiny waist but want to hide your hips, wear a fabulous ball gown. And, always, buy for the body you have now.

formality

palette

YOU WANT

YOU WANT

look YOU WANT

Black-tie

Colour

Trendy

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

THEY WANT

Casual

All-black

Classic

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

THE COMPROMISE

A suit still works with a fancy dress.

Maids in colour; guys in black with bright ties.

A classic suit goes with any style you choose.

2 3

downsize the search party Too

4

keep your venue in mind While

many opinions will just stress you out—stick to one or two friends who know you. Shopping with your mum is a lovely tradition, but talk about what you want beforehand to avoid a not-so-lovely blowout.

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the venue doesn’t have to dictate your dress style, it’s something to consider. A ball gown offers a sense of drama and importance to match a ballroom setting. A lightweight, airy dress fits a garden party, and a fun, easyflowing silhouette works for a beach setting.

5

factor in alterations Complicated or extensive tailoring can really up the cost (think: around $300 per adjustment for couture gowns), but even a simple dress can be hard to tailor since there’s nothing to hide. Get a written estimate before you buy.

6

match your party The bride and

bridesmaids should look like they’re going to the same event, so coordinate your maids’ dresses with yours. Keep their bodies in mind, though. In general, strapless dresses with natural or empire waists in chiffon or taffeta tend to be the most flattering.

the wedding dress wizard Amsale Aberra, a couture bridal and evening wear designer and cofounder, co-CEO and creative director of the Amsale Design Group (which houses Amsale, Christos and Kenneth Pool collections of wedding and evening wear)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA SERGEANT; LEFT TO RIGHT: AMSALE DRESS, $485, AVAILABLE FROM ANGELA WILSON BRIDAL STUDIO, ANGELAWILSON.COM; ALFRED ANGELO WEDDING DRESS, FROM $1,200, ALFREDANGELO.COM; AMSALE DRESS, $545, AND AMSALE DRESS, $485, AVAILABLE FROM ANGELA WILSON BRIDAL STUDIO, ANGELAWILSON.COM

start your search early It’s one of the most important things you’ll ever wear, so you don’t want to buy it under a lot of pressure. Begin looking at least a year before.

your planning timeline 12+ months

6 to 8 months

date:

date:

Schedule an engagement photo shoot.

Envision and pick your wedding style and colour scheme.

Reserve tables, chairs and any other rental equipment.

Get organised! Start a file for all

Find and hire a lighting specialist (if you’re using one).

wedding-related paperwork. Use our

Narrow down your dress choices, pick one, and place your order.

timeline (it’s online too! Go to My

Reserve a hotel block near the reception site for out-of-town guests.

To Do List) to stay on top of all your

Choose the bridesmaid dresses and make sure your girls order them.

to-dos.

Interview cake designers and book one.

Decide on a budget and hash out who will contribute to it.

Create a wedding website at TheKnot.com.au/MyWebsite. Include info about your wedding, surrounding events and registry.

Interview planners and hire one.

Order your save-the-dates so they’ll be ready to send

Decide on your wedding size and create a preliminary guest list.

Select your wedding party.

Pick a wedding date and time. Finalise

edding Us e o ur W h o n e iP y r Directo d your n fi app to suppliers

it after checking with key guests (parents, bridal party...), potential venues and celebrants.

at least four months before the wedding.

THE KNOT TIP Order your invitations at the same time and cross one more to-do off your list.

Plan and finalise the reception menu and how it will be served (sit-down, buffet-style, passed appetisers) with your caterer.

Start planning your honeymoon.

Finalise flower ideas with your florist.

Research ceremony sites and those involved, and book both.

Book ceremony musicians; start working on a song list.

Start dress shopping. Browse thousands of dresses at

Research and purchase wedding insurance. Trust us—get it!

TheKnot.com.au/fashion Having an engagement party? Set a date, draft a guest list, pick a venue and order invitations.

9 to 11 months

date:

Nail down ceremony structure and requirements with your celebrant.

Register for gifts.

Interview photographers and videographers, and book your choices.

Research florists and book one.

Scout out bands and/or DJs, and book your choices.

Interview caterers (read: schedule some tastings!) and book one.

Finalise the guest list (after checking with both sets of parents).

If you’re having a destination wedding, order your save-the-dates so they’ll be ready to send six to eight months before the wedding.

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Scout out reception sites and book one.

4 to 5 months

date:

Book a calligrapher, sign the contract, and pay the deposit.

Send out save-the-dates. Order invites (if you haven’t already).

Grooms: Decide what you and your groomsmen will wear and provide all the ordering info.

Buy your wedding rings; send them out to be engraved if you’d like.

Make sure the rehearsal dinner site is booked, and give the host a guest list.

Book a hotel for your wedding night.

Choose your wedding cake design and flavours (not without tasting them all first, of course!).

Think about your ceremony décor, like extra flowers or an aisle runner.

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2 to 3 months

date:

date:

Call guests who haven’t RSVPed to confirm their attendance.

Book hair and makeup professionals for the day-of,

Give the final head count to your caterer and cake designer;

and schedule trials.

confirm the menu.

Make or buy bomboniere and a guest book.

Get passports, visas and vaccinations (if needed) for the honeymoon.

Brides: Schedule fittings for your dress, and buy lingerie, shapewear, a veil and shoes in time for the first one.

Grooms: If you’re renting a tux, get measured for it. Also, buy shoes, stays, cuff links, a pocket square and any other accessories.

Book day-of transportation for you, your wedding party and guests.

Pick up invites; address them yourselves or take

6 weeks

date:

Write and order ceremony programs, place cards, menus and any other paper elements from your stationer.

Weigh invites to make sure you have the right postage; mail them.

Start working on your vows.

Give your Notice of Intended Marriage form to your celebrant.

Buy gifts for your wedding party, parents and each other.

Order or plan welcome bags (if you’re having them).

3 to 4 weeks

Confirm that your suppliers will have access to the reception site when needed and give the site manager a list of requests from other suppliers.

Practice walking in your wedding shoes—you’ll want to break them in.

Finalise the seating chart and pass it on to your caterer, location manager and/or wedding planner.

Make place cards for guests (if you didn’t order them from a stationer).

Put together a list of suppliers’ phone numbers to have on hand for

them to a calligrapher.

date:

Apply for your marriage license (make sure it doesn’t 32

1 to 2 weeks

Begin your prewedding beauty routine.

expire before the wedding).

Attend the final dress fitting.

Finish, proofread and print ceremony programs if you didn’t order them from a stationer.

Discuss playlists with your musicians and/or DJ, including a do-not-play list.

the day-of, and distribute it to suppliers, planner, bridal party and family.

Grooms: Pick up your tux and try it on to make sure it fits. Get a haircut.

Prepare your toasts or thanks to friends and family, and confirm with guests who you expect to give speeches.

Confirm all honeymoon reservations and begin packing.

day before Rehearse the ceremony with the celebrant and your wedding party.

Gather your dress, veil, shoes and jewellery. Put together an emergency kit (with aspirin, makeup, safety pins).

Drop off bomboniere, guest book and pen at the reception site.

Drop off ceremony accessories and décor at the ceremony site.

Pay and/or talk to suppliers about how final balances will be paid.

Attend rehearsal dinner and give attendants their gifts at dinner.

Get some much-needed sleep—if you can!

day of wedding

Give photographer/videographer a must-shoot list.

Make time to exchange gifts and a kiss with your new husband.

Pick up wedding rings (check inscriptions before leaving the store).

Eat, relax, smile and enjoy the day!

Fill out paperwork if you’re changing your name.

Work out the day-of timeline and details; confirm delivery and set-up times with the suppliers and venue;

after the wedding Take gown and veil to be preserved; dry-clean groom’s tux or suit.

Send gifts to parents and write thank yous to all guests.

relay day-of assignments.

Confirm travel arrangements and wedding party logistics.

Sorry, your job’s not over yet. Send us your wedding pictures! Find out how at TheKnot.com.au/weddingsubmit Keep track of all your to-dos at

TheKnot.com.au/checklist

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freeze frame PHOTOGRAPHY BY BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY

The must-have photos for your wedding album (btw: You probably didn’t even know that you needed these!). BY ANJA WINIKK A

We’ve seen it all (the “veil in the wind” photo, the “getting ready” photo, the “holding hands in a field” photo), but sometimes we spot a photo that really stands out. Take a look at our list and ask your photographer about getting these must-have shots for your album. And if you want your wedding featured on TheKnot.com.au, simply submit your best images (or ask your photographer to) at TheKnot.com.au/weddingsubmit.

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your wedding cake The wedding cake is usually the centrepiece of your reception room, so make certain that you get a shot of it (before you cut it!). the cake cutting Okay, now you can go ahead and cut into that amazing cake. This is one of the most classic photographed moments at the reception. a “first look” photo If you’re planning to take couple shots photos before the ceremony, have your photographer catch a “first look” to capture your groom’s face when he sees you for the first time in your gorgeous wedding dress. your reception (pulled back) It’s the little scene setters (like the reception room, completely set up and quiet beforehand) that help to paint a picture of your party. a sign-of-the-times detail Your wedding album is a time capsule—so don’t shy away from showcasing some of the latest high-tech gadgets (especially if it’s your favorite toy!). A shot of your vows written out on your iPad or even texting the groom on your mobile are both cute ideas.

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a really good black-and-white image There’s nothing more timeless than a great black-and-white photo: a shot of you kissing in the car as you drive off after the ceremony, your first dance or just a dramatic, posed shot of the two of you with the city skyline or the ocean behind you. you (looking fabulous) Once you’re all put together—hair, makeup, dress, shoes—you’re going to want an I-look-amazing-and-I-know-it shot.

you stepping into your dress Getting ready—whether it’s putting on your gown or having your makeup done—is one of the most exciting parts of the day. your bridesmaids before the ceremony You’ll have plenty of photos with them after you say “I do”, but try to get a candid shot of your maids getting ready.

family moments You’ll probably do the posed photographs of your families together after the ceremony. But a photojournalistic shot of you with your dad or mum before the ceremony is full of sentiment—a must-have. you and your bestie She’s your best friend or your sister (or maybe both!), and you asked her to be your maid of honour for a reason. She’s been a perfect support since day one—a shot of the two of you is a no-brainer.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY INFINITY PHOTOGRAPHY

your pre-ceremony expressions Beforehand, you’ll have a lot on your mind—namely marrying your best friend—making this a great time to capture candid smiles.

your wedding rings We’ve seen photographers arrange rings in books, bowls, bouquets and more. No matter how it’s propped, it’s a total album scene setter.

just the guys Shots of the guys gathered together on the porch or just relaxing with the groom before the ceremony are so much better than the stiff, all-lined-up photos from your parents’ wedding album.

a sweeping shot of your ceremony A photograph captured as if from the vantage point of someone who happened to walk by your ceremony is one for the picture frames—it offers a sense of the “big picture”, both literally and figuratively.

an only-at-your-wedding detail Maybe you decided to have your dog serve as a ring bearer, or you’re planting a tree during the ceremony. Whatever you’ve decided to reinvent, let your photographer know so he can capture it.

traditions and exits Whether it’s a six-sword military salute, the ceremonial breaking of the glass, a crown exchange or your mothers lighting the unity candle, clue your photographer in to the traditions you’re planning for the day so you preserve those important moments on film.

IMAGE COURTESY OF SWEETBRIDE, SWEETBRIDE.COM.AU

your wedding invitation Your invitation sets the tone for the entire day. A photo of it at your wedding venue would make for a great opening shot to your album. your bridesmaids (at the ceremony) It’s a given that you’ll get shots of your bridesmaids from the front. But one from the other direction as they watch you exchange vows or exit the ceremony will give your day even more dimension (and capture the eye-catching detail on their dresses!). the ceremony musicians A photo of your musicians is a great way to remember the sounds of the day, whether it’s one of your cousin singing a classical number, or a professional string quartet for your walk down the aisle.

your big (ceremony) kiss You know the snide saying, “Why don’t you take a picture, it’ll last longer?”. We think it’s a completely appropriate idea here. your guests (candid-style) Often, the best wedding pictures are the ones that you won’t find on a must-have list. An aerial shot of your guests enjoying themselves while grooving on the dance floor is just one example. the wedding toasts The speeches are a time for tears, jokes and, sometimes, surprises.

Photos of your parents, maid of honour and best man toasting you (as well as your reactions to go along with them) are absolute musts for an outstanding wedding album.

Find your nearest photographer at

TheKnot.com.au/photography

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the in-between moments Sometimes the best photos are behind the scenes, like your nephews playing outside the church or your extended family meeting one another for the first time.

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shocking facts about your guests

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANAE SHEILDS PHOTOGRAPHY

36

Amid the frenzy, don’t lose sight of one nontrivial constituency: your guests. BY JEFF WILSER

FACT

they don’t go to bed at 8 p.m.

Look, they’ve blocked out their day for you. They’ve hired babysitters, turned down dates, skipped football games, and they don’t have any other plans. So if you end the festivities too early, they’ll awkwardly look at their watches and wonder what to do next. Have a plan. There’s no need to splurge on an expensive reception that rages until the wee hours of the morning. But have a designated venue—a friend’s house or a nearby bar, say, for an entertaining after-party.

FACT

they want to eat cake For the first time in the history of weddings, we’re going to compare wedding cake to the plot of Rocky V. Stay with us: The film’s writers decided to mix things up by having Rocky fight in a street brawl, rather than a heavyweight championship. A disaster. They avoided a cliché but left us disappointed. Likewise, your guests don’t want scones or something you think is out-of-the-box—except for cake lollipops, cupcakes or brownies, which are fine. Stick to a formula that works: Give them wedding cake. Give them Rocky in the ring.

FACT

they’ll think whatever you do is adorable Stressed about your vows? Worried you’ll cry too much? Relax. Here’s the secret truth about weddings: It’s basically impossible to screw up.

By definition, whatever you say or do will be greeted by a chorus of “Awww!” and women dabbing their eyes.

FACT

FACT

they like music that doesn’t suck Love, togetherness, matrimony—forget all that for a second. Let’s be honest. At the end of the day, your wedding is a party. People want to have a good time. Do your homework and get a competent wedding DJ or wedding band. Read: This is not the place to cut corners.

most won’t rsvp on time Just face it, accept it and don’t lose sleep about it. You’ll be wrangling and hounding your guests—especially the guys—because when it comes down to it, people are just lazy. For you, your wedding is the most important thing since the invention of the ghd. For your guests, the RSVP is just one of 37 tasks they need to tackle. So don’t be surprised when replies trickle in late. It always happens.

they want you to register You will have many difficult decisions in life. (How many kids? Rent or buy? Ground or whole-bean coffee?) Opting for a gift registry is not a hard decision. Your guests want it. By registering, you get exactly what you ask for and spare your guests confusion. Plus, it’s easier than ever before: You can now use your computer to set it up from home, sip champagne if you’re registering in store and put anything on your wish list as long as it’s sold somewhere on the Internet.

FACT

they like free booze Some of your guests are buying plane tickets, renting cars and paying for hotel rooms. Throw them a bone. Provide an open bar. There’s nothing more awkward than having your guests whip out their wallets and argue over who buys whom a drink. Complete buzzkill. You don’t have to offer up Johnnie Walker Blue Label, but you should give them something—basic beer, wine and bubbly for the toast are enough—to keep the party lubricated.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE LEAKE PHOTOGRAPHY

FACT

they like to dance Disclosure: This love of dance isn’t entirely true. To be precise, women like to dance, and men like to impress women, so they pretend they like to dance, even though they hate it. Regardless, your guests need dancing at the reception. Make it happen. Your first dance should be more than just a sentimental token waltz; enlist your groomsmen and bridesmaids to cajole others who are seated or lingering and get the party started on the dance floor.

FACT

they’ll get hungry after dinner The best way to score points with your guests? Surprise them. This is your coup de grâce: a light “bonus meal” that’s served hours after the dessert. (Think: hamburger sliders, pizza, late-night munchies.)

It absorbs the alcohol and fuels them for dancing. Works every time.

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FACT

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Spread collars make thin faces look more proportional.

the tux decoded Wearing a necktie?

You won’t see these extras, so skip it!

collar Of the many types, wing-tip is most formal, point is extra-slimming (especially for round faces), while spread has a widening effect.

shirt Ruffled shirts (think: Austin Powers) feel costumey; try a pleated or plain-front style instead.

Pick cuff links that reflect your personal style— even if it’s simple and refined.

Let at least 1cm of cuff peek out from under your jacket; it attracts the eye, making your arm look longer.

studs Buy a set of these details to replace plastic buttons for a finished look.

cuff links Another add-on, they’re a must-have for French cuffs. They also make great groomsman gifts.

cummerbund Get more tips on how to groom your man at

TheKnot.com.au/groom-groomsmen

Match your neckwear, not the bridesmaids’ dresses. And pleats should face up.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANITA CALERO; DAYMION MARDEL; WITH THANKS TO LINKS OF LONDON FOR CUFF LINKS; FOR OTHER STYLISH CUFF LINKS, TRY CUFFED AUSTRALIA, CUFFED.COM.AU; BOW TIE AND CUMMERBUND BY J.CREW, JCREW.COM; SHIRT STUDS BY THOMAS PINK, THOMASPINK.COM

Five details for foolproof formalwear. BY HEATHER LEVINE

The vertical lines of a pleatedfront shirt make it super-flattering.

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wedding hairstyles we love

SPOTTED ON THE RUNWAY GET THE

360°

front

undone updo It’s soft, but unlike other effortless styles, this won’t fall out during the reception.

Now that’s a good look. how to get the look

side

TARA KEELY

back

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VIEW

STEP 1 Blowdry your hair and set it in rollers to amp up the volume.

STEP 2 Remove the rollers, leaving a few tendrils out to frame your face. Pull the rest of your hair back into a loose braid—it adds texture that a ponytail can’t.

STEP 3 Fold the braid around itself and then pin.

STEP 4 Finish the look by curling the pieces you left out in step 2. Keep the pieces asymmetrical; an even number of curls on each side of your face will look funny in photos.

faux blooms add style that won’t wilt

side bun

SPOTTED ON THE RUNWAY

MELISSA SWEET

REEM ACRA

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RUNWAY FROM TOP: JENNIFER DAVIS; LUKE WALKER; JENNIFER DAVIS; RUNWAY OPPOSITE PAGE: ERIK EKROTH; HAIR BY MATTHEW MONZON; MAKEUP BY CHRISTINA REYNA

It’s no surprise these knots are all over the bridal runways.

A bun is the perfect place to pop in flowers or sparkly hairpins.

REVERIE BY MELISSA SWEET

how to get the look STEP 1 Use a 25mm curling iron to add texture to straight hair. The curls will help keep your hair looking loose.

STEP 2 Find your natural part and pull your hair into a low side ponytail behind your ear. Secure with a hair tie.

STEP 3 Split the ponytail into two sections. Take the top section and fold it up and over to create a loop.

STEP 4 Pull the second piece through the loop created by the first; fold the ends under and pin.

Set with spray.

tip

Deep-condition once a week the month before your wedding for ultrashiny hair.

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high-low twist

We put our own spin on this lofty runway look: A soft twist, less height and a subtle low bun make for an elegant bridal ’do.

how to get the look

Set your hair with rollers, leaving a small front section loose. Part the rest of your hair at the middle back into two sections. Lightly tease for some volume.

STEP 2 Softly twist each side downward and backward until they meet in a low ponytail, and secure with a hair tie.

STEP 3 Twist the ponytail, loop it under itself and then pin to create a structural looped bun.

STEP 4 Tease the loose front section (from step 1); then twist tightly and pull it back until you can tuck the ends into the bun. Pin to secure.

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STEP 1

SPOTTED ON THE RUNWAY

GET THE

360°

back

side

PRISCILLA OF BOSTON

front

VIEW

high-volume low ponytail Though inspired by the teased-and-tousled runway looks, this pony’s more polished.

SPOTTED ON THE RUNWAY

RUNWAY FROM TOP: ERIK EKROTH; JENNIFER DAVIS; RUNWAY OPPOSITE PAGE: JENNIFER DAVIS

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JUSTIN ALEXANDER

how to get the look STEP 1 Start from the bottom and work your way up, curling 50mm sections with a 25mm iron.

Different-sized curls help make the ponytail look a bit more romantic.

STEP 2 Create a part and separate your hair into two equal sections. Twist each of them inward until they meet in the middle of the back of your head.

STEP 3 Secure the twists with pins and an elastic band.

Your hair can fall over your ears or behind them—it just depends on what feels more comfortable.

STEP 4 Take a small piece of hair from the bottom of each side of the ponytail and wrap them around the band.

Tuck it under the ponytail and pin.

PRISCILLA OF BOSTON

PRISCILLA OF BOSTON

pretty ın pink You can’t go wrong with this universally flattering hue. Go bold to play up any feature.

BY JENNIE MA PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM SCHIRMACHER MAKEUP BY YUKO MIZUNO FOR RONA REPRESENTS

cheeks

add a natural glow Think about it: When your cheeks are flushed from working out (or even from being embarrassed), they don’t usually turn bronze; they change to pink or rosy. That’s why we love any shade of pink if you’re going for a really natural look, instead of, say, a sun-kissed glow. Try Nars Blush in Orgasm, $45, MeccaCosmetica.com.au

EARRINGS BY ELIZABETH BOWER; SHRUG BY ADRIENNE LANDAU

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HAIR BY GEORGE KYRIAKOS; FASHION ASSISTANT: MARIA RUOCCO IOANNIDIS

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lips

line your lips Bright-red lipstick normally gets all the attention, but you can create an equally dramatic look with pink. And no surprise, it’s a lot easier to pull off. Pick a shade that matches your undertones—coral, for example, for a warmer skin tone. Also, use a lip pencil instead of a lipstick. It’ll last longer and look more saturated. Try Double Wear Stay-in-Place Lip Pencil in Coral, $38, EsteeLauder.com.au

eyes

sweep over lids Pink can be sexy. For a softer, more natural take on a smoky eye, use a bronzy-rose shadow instead of the typical greys or browns—the result is sweet yet sultry. Try Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick in Golden Pink, $44, BobbiBrown.com.au

For more bridal beauty tips, go to

TheKnot.com.au/beauty

EARRINGS BY CAROLEE; HEADPIECE BY LEAH C. COUTURE MILLINERY

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1

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2 10

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8

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHILIP LE MASURIER

pink passion 1. Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector in Candy Shimmer, $26, (02) 9663 4277 2. Diorshow Mono eyeshadow by Christian Dior, $47, (02) 9695 4800 3. Daniel Sandler Watercolour Blush in Hot Pink, $29, FeelUnique.com 4. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Shine lipstick in Pink Devotion, $55, 1300 651 991 5. Bloom Super Glossy Lips in Sheen, $20, BloomCosmetics.com 6. Bobbi Brown Creamy Matte Lip Color in Hot, $44, 1800 061 326 7. Chanel Le Crayon Levres Precision Lip Definer in Pretty Pink, $44 (02) 9900 2944 8. ELES Mineral Gemstone Finishing Powder Blush, $101.50, 1800 069 116 9. L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Eyeshadow Quad in Rose Memories, $24, 1300 659 359 10. Make Up Store lipgloss pot in Sea, $27, (02) 9360 5885 11. Shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte Lipstick in Bright Pink, $39, 1300 651 991 12. Benefit Posie Tint The Poppy-Pink Tinted Lip and Cheek Stain, $55, (02) 8353 5000

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groom

When I first met you at

t you were a little I have to admit, I though proved me wrong bit [adjective] . But you n my main source of right away and have bee ping for the past few years, hel

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[noun]

e of [noun] me to find an abundanc . What I love most about and [noun] , and you is that you are [adjective] t you . It also doesn’t hurt tha [adjective]

are so good at

[activity]

Standing here today in

and

[activity]

.

front of all of our

mise to cherish you friends and family, I pro s. you for the rest of our day and [verb] are the most [adjective] You life, and I am person to come into my unity to share it with thankful for the opport you forever.

On this day, I ma ke the [adjective]

and

vow to always be

[adjective]

to you so that

o something our love can develop int as we grow old together. [adjective]

you These things, I pledge to

for eternity.

Find the ultimate ceremony guide at

TheKnot.com.au/ceremony

ILLUSTRATION: KELLY MCGUIRE

bride

,

[place]

When I first saw yo u at , [place] I knew that we were meant to be togeth er.

In many ways, I fel t like you completed me, sharing the same interests and [adjec tive] preference for . In time I rea lised [noun] that you were, in fac t, a better person th an me, and over the course of our relationship, you taught me how to again through [verb] your and [noun] . What I love [noun] most about you is th at you are , [adjec tive] and [adjec tive] bu t that doesn’t [adjec tive] even begin to sum up how extraordin ar y you truly are. I feel so that I am lucky [adjec tive] enough to be the pe rson who can see all of these things on a reg ular basis. There is something in ever ything that [adjec tive] you do, and I want to sh are it with the world . My love for you is [adjec tive] . I promise, in front of ever yone here tod ay, that I will [verb] and you for the rest of my [verb] days.

All these things, I ple dge for eternity.