An Essex Wedding - March/April 2024 (Issue 115)

HOT TOPIC Our local experts solve your wedding dilemmas OUR DAY, OUR WAY A few of my friends have got married recently, and I’m worried my wedding isn’t going to stand out. How can I add something special to my big day? Each and every wedding at Houchins is original and we love our couples to add their own personal touches to make their day stand out and have a special meaning for them. Laura and Ollie had friends and family make individual origami butterflies which were then hung from the grids in the Grainstore which decorated the dining barn beautifully, subtly incorporating their guests in the day. Another bride had her and her partner’s initials embroidered into her veil and also onto banners which hung in the Grainstore - personalising the whole look of the day. You could even have individual cakes made with your initials to serve as dessert for each guest. Or why not entertain your guests in style? One of our couples asked us to install card tables up on the mezzanine to give a casino vibe! Just talk your ideas through with your venue and see what they can accommodate! Fiona Pardoe | Wedding team www.houchins.co.uk OH, DO ME A FAVOUR! I’m so stuck when it comes to wedding favours. I have a budget of £2 per person, what do you suggest? Choosing wedding favours within a £2 budget per person can be challenging, but there are still plenty of creative and thoughtful options available. Here are some affordable suggestions that as a pastry chef and cake designer I offer. I often suggest truffles or chocolates with a chocolate stamp with your names or initials; Biscoff and Nutella flavours are popular. There’s also personalised biscuits and cookies, with a quote that represents your love or a moment that can be shown in icing. Thirdly, macaroons are always a winner. Remember to consider the packaging and presentation to add an extra touch of elegance to your favours. They’ll look great on the table and won’t cost the earth! Tiago Pereira | The Artist Cake www.artistcake.com www.jessicamoorephotography.co.uk 85 ASK THE EXPERTS

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