An Essex Wedding - January/February 2023 (Issue 108)

54 GET STYLISH WITH SIGNS “Mirrors and metallics are trending for wedding signage, as well as more personal touches,” says Emma Fews from Witham’s Elf Occasions. “Couples also like ideas personal to themselves, such as theming their guest tables, rather than having table numbers. Whether it’s locations of places they’ve been to on holiday together, or names to match the theme of the couple’s wedding, personalisation always adds a lovely touch. Just be sure to choose the right signs for your venue and the style of wedding you want, being consistent throughout. If you’re having a rustic wedding, choose wooden signs and table plans to match. If it’s an elegant theme, opt for mirrored and metallic table plans and signs.” DO “Get your photographer to capture a snap of you both in the reflection of any mirror sign – it makes a lovely picture!” DON’T “Forget to tell your venue if naming rather than numbering tables. That way they can incorporate this into your floorplan to ensure all the tables are set correctly.” CONTACT www.elfoccasions.co.uk GET STYLISH WITH LIGHTING “We’re seeing an increased number of weddings in marquees, so fairy lights and festoon lighting outside is becoming popular,” says Michelle Broom from Kirby Cross-based Occasions and Celebrations. “Our favourite form of lighting for any wedding has to be our Sparkle Package, which includes a light up LED dance floor, light up letters and starlight backdrop, to give you that perfect combination of sparkling lights that ‘wow’ your guests. The starlight backdrop creates the perfect staging for your ceremony and top table; the dance floor gives your guests a place to head to; and the light up letters create the perfect spot for those social media snapshot moments!” DO “Choose lighting that directs guests to your dancing area. If not, you have the danger of people sitting or standing in separate areas, resulting in you losing that party atmosphere.” DON’T “Mix colours of lights, for example warm with ice, as it looks messy and unfinished.” CONTACT www.occasionsweddingflowers.co.uk GET STYLISH WITH FINISHING TOUCHES “Consider little extras that guests may not have thought about when it comes to your big day,” says Hayley Bunting from Brentwood’s Hayley Jayne Weddings & Events. “Display milk churns full of umbrellas if it’s looking like rain, or paper fans if the weather will be warm. Wicker baskets with packets of tissues are great for family members who may shed a tear, as are bathroom hampers packed with useful items for throughout the day. Have mini organza bags of confetti readily at hand, consider a camera for Polaroid shots, and don’t forget about that box of flip flops for tired feet, when ladies want to hit the dance floor but can’t cope with their heels any longer!” DO “Consider candlelight if allowed. Pillar candles style your aisle, while tealight holders positioned on your cake table and bar also look beautiful.” DON’T “Over-style. Instead, choose a small number of additional styling elements and do them well.” CONTACT https://hayleyjayneweddingsandevents.co.uk www.photographerliamgillan.com www.danielle-smith-photography.com www.danielle-smith-photography.com

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