WEDDING BELLES After you’ve chosen a location, searching for the perfect venue is key. Consider everything at first, from barns and farms to purpose-built venues, hotels and even tipis, yurts and marquees. Narrow it down to a few that you both like and then book a viewing at each one which is so important. The essence of a place can’t be captured by seeing it on a website or Instagram, you need to feel it. Top tip: As soon as you pay a deposit to secure your dream date, it’s worth considering taking out wedding insurance (and don’t forget to insure your engagement ring too). ‘I DO’ If you’re not having a church ceremony or using the registrar available at your licensed venue then it’s time to decide on a celebrant who can host a non-religious ceremony - the team at your venue might be able to help with a recommended list of local suppliers. Top tip: You could get married at a register office beforehand and then have the freedom to host a hand-tying or sand ceremony (or another humanist type of ceremony) in a location of your choice. GUEST LIST Securing the venue determines the number of guests you can invite because most venues have an upper limit. Make a list of names in order of importance, and have a reserve list. Send out save-the-date notifications - digital ones are the most eco-friendly choice and the official invitations can then follow. Top tip: Ask guests to reserve accommodation promptly and if you’ve chosen to get married and stay in a hotel, ask the team to book some rooms. MEMORIES MADE Finding the right photographer and videographer is vital and the more time you allow for researching this, the better. Firstly, think about the type of photographs you want, whether it’s candid, natural images or more staged shots. When it comes to wedding videography, do you want a documentary-style memory of your day capturing the special moments as they happen, or something more traditional? There’s also the option to request a movie-inspired cinematic edit or even a nostalgic vintage video which always look great.. Top tip: Arrange a meeting in person with prospective photographers and videographers - you’ll need to feel comfortable with them to achieve great results. Request to see wedding albums and full videos of their previous work, not just a handful of images. A PIECE OF CAKE Wedding cakes are often masterpieces and can be inspired by many things including the bridal dress, venue or theme. Top tip: Match the cake decorations to your floral arrangements or venue décor. 57 WEDDING PLANNING
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