RING-A-DING-DING Sarah says: A wedding ring is an item you only buy once and wear forever; this is not a decision to be rushed. Rings are a physical embodiment of the vows you’re making to each other, so give yourself plenty of time to choose them well before the ceremony. Order the pieces six to eight weeks in advance. These can be ready quicker if the rings are available in-store, so always be sure to check. Bespoke pieces will take longer to create, so allow yourself at least eight to ten weeks for the items to arrive. If you’re thinking of making the pieces personal with engravings, remember this will take longer. Always consider when ordering your jewellery the date of your final fittings. That way, you’ll get the full effect and can check everything works together. Once the big-ticket items are sorted, you can then focus on the additional pieces that will complete your look. How about bespoke pieces for the bridal party? Incorporating a bridesmaid’s birthstone is a simple way to make an item personal. Another popular gift at the moment is personalised cufflinks. While most commonly done for the groom, these are also being gifted to groomsmen. Chances are you’ll be setting time aside for some primping and preening, so why not give your engagement rings some tender loving care too? At Baker Brothers, we offer a free cleaning service for customers who purchase rings on-site and we encourage couples to pop in two weeks before the wedding. Afterwards, we suggest getting your rings checked and cleaned every three to five years, although this will vary depending on how you wear your rings. Sarah Colley | Baker Brothers www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com RAISE A GLASS John says: On average, planning a wedding will start 18 months before the big day. One of the first things you must decide is what type of ceremony you want: a religious service in a place of worship, a civil ceremony or a bespoke celebrant-led ceremony. Once the date and venues have been confirmed, it’s a good idea to consult a toastmaster who can advise on wedding etiquette, tradition and timings. The supplier will have the management skills, tact and experience to ensure the success of any function. They’ll determine an outline plan as you want it to be, and you’ll receive full support in addressing any questions and dealing with any changes. The convention at weddings where the couple includes both bride and groom is for the groom to stand, be seated and photographed on his bride’s right; after all, he’s her right-hand man! The suggested seating arrangement at a civil ceremony follows a similar convention. Looking towards the registrar’s table, the groom’s family sits on the right. Although the couple will not sit for long, the groom takes the first seat in the front row. Next to him sits his best man, parents, witnesses and anyone giving a reading. The bride’s family is seated on the left; the first seat is reserved for her father, then mother and bridesmaids. Again, other seats are taken by witnesses and anyone giving a reading. As for the other guests, ‘choose a seat not a side’ or ‘we’re all one family when the knot is tied’ signs work great. John Ashmele | John Ashmele FGPT www.ashmele.co.uk www.enekastewart.com www.amymurphyphotography.co.uk 74
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