Planned to PERFECTION Local suppliers from a variety of specialisms share some words of wisdom to help get your planning off on the right foot JOHN BLAKE, OLD BRIDGE www.old-bridge.co.uk | @oldbridgevenue We’re engaged! Now what? Depending on your timescale, you need to think about a date and getting some of the key things booked to avoid disappointment – church/registrar, venue, caterer, band… There are so many things to think about but if you have a clear idea about how you want your special day to be, try to lock in the key things before others get there first. Are we allowed to…? In our case, where we offer a lot of flexibility to our couples to plan their day how they want, the answer is nearly always: “Yes, of course!” How can we make our big day totally us? Find a venue that puts you in charge, steer clear of packages specifying who you have to use and what you have to do. At Old Bridge we’ve just one price for the hire of the venue and no hidden extras; our couples can more or less arrange their day exactly as they wish, with their own decor, caterers, music, flowers, photographers and more. What’s your top planning tip? Our marquee is beautiful as it is, but most couples do something to make it their own such as adding flower chandeliers or balls, bunting and table decoration. You could even think about additional furniture, a memorial to a recently deceased relative, kids’ corner, sweet trolley… really anything you think you’d love to have on your day. Just remember that you do need a venue that’s open to your ideas and is prepared to think outside the box. RACHEL TERRETT, SALT AND SCENT EVENTS https://saltandscent.co.uk | @saltandscentevents We’re engaged! Now what? Let the celebrations begin! Reach out to loved ones to share the joy before making it public on social media. Plan an engagement party and enjoy this magical time. What can I achieve with my budget? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we delve into your overall plan, and ensure the elements that matter most to you as a couple are prioritised. Recent discussions within the industry about average spend reports often miss the mark, reflecting a narrow demographic and DIY scenarios. Approach these figures cautiously; instead, consult with your planner for tailored guidance. How can we make our big day totally us? Personalisation is key; envision guests arriving and instantly recognising the wedding as uniquely yours. Through year-long collaborations, I delve into your personalities, preferences, and story, building a celebration that feels effortlessly authentic, from the overall design to the smallest details. What’s your top planning tip? Embrace the journey! Modern weddings, influenced by social media and blogs, often resemble grand productions rather than intimate affairs. Navigate wisely, sticking to your priorities and budget. Avoid post-event regrets by considering expenses thoughtfully. Investing in a planner often proves invaluable, offering time-saving solutions, expert supplier recommendations, and unwavering support throughout the process. They’ll be your trusted confidant, and eagerly embrace your wedding visions. Style and substance Location, location, location www.evedunlopphotography.co.uk PLANNING SOS 49
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