Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding - July/August 2019 (Issue 46)

Fantasy flowers What blooms and colours should I go for to complement my summer wedding? Gemma says: What can be more romantic than the scent of flowers on a warm summer breeze? The sweet perfume of sweet peas, roses, delphiniums, and hydrangeas conjures up the image of an English country garden. Light hued blooms in pink, white, blue and lilac are often chosen to complement a summer wedding. On the other hand, if bolder colours are more your thing, why not opt for a more exotic look? Nothing says summer like a simple arrangement of sunflowers or the tropical vibe of bright hibiscus flowers in a wedding bouquet. Some of our favourite summer flowers are: agapanthuses, peonies, roses, stocks, hydrangeas, dahlias, sweet peas, nigellas, strelitzias, gingers and heliconias. Gemma Wakerley, www.BookerFlowersAndGifts.co.uk SUBSTANCE AND STYLE My husband-to-be works with his hands all day. Can you recommend what we should be looking at for his wedding ring, so that it’s hardy and doesn’t get damaged quickly? Stephen says: For 20 years we’ve only been selling precious metal rings – platinum, 9ct and 18ct gold, and palladium. However, in recent years we’ve been asked for materials that don’t scratch, which has always been an issue with easily damaged precious metals. While we’ve always recommended that our customers be patient as scuffs will eventually merge into the finish of the ring and in time stop being noticeable, we’ve now started selling tungsten rings. These less expensive alternatives are incredibly scratch-resistant and have proven to be extremely popular with men for this reason. It seems that hallmarked precious metals take a back seat in favour of durability for today’s groom. Stephen Slade, smoochrings.co.uk Candid camera I’m not keen on formal group shots but want to make sure we get snaps of all of our guests. What can you recommend to ensure the informal outdoor atmosphere of our day is reflected in our photographs? Michelle says: Choose your photographer wisely. It’s the candid informal photos that really tell the story of your day. To get these, first and foremost, your guests need to feel comfortable with your photographer, so much so they forget we’re even there. Being subtle and discrete with the camera – a photography ninja – helps as well! If you hire someone who’s friendly and informal, yet professional, your images are going to reflect this. Also, be sure to brief your photographer on your preferences. They need to understand that whilst you may not fancy having lots of formal group shots you still want to have photos of your guests to cherish. This way they can organise and prepare themselves to make sure they capture the best images of all your loved ones. Michelle Mahoney, mahoneypics.com andrewkeher.co.uk mahoneypics.com BLOOMS ON A BUDGET We want showstopping flowers but are working to a tight budget. What are your top tips for cost effective wedding blooms? Rachel says: My first suggestion would be to use flowers that are in season and grown in the UK. Saving on import and transport costs can have a significant impact on the bill, not to mention the benefit of freshness, supporting local growers and reducing your carbon footprint. Your florist will be able to advise what will be in season at the time of your wedding. The second way to achieve eye-catching floral designs on a budget would be to allow your florist the freedom to choose blooms appropriate to your colour palette and theme. This is a great option as there are certain varieties that for many different reasons will be cheaper than normal at the time of ordering. Allowing your florist free reign will enable them to buy smart and make the best use of your budget. Finally, take advice from your professional florist. They want you to have the flowers of your dreams as much as you do and will work with you to achieve your goals. This may mean making a few small compromises, but by choosing an experienced and proven florist you won’t be disappointed. Rachel Peers, labeaufleurs.co.uk adamjoeroberts.com EXPERT ADVICE 59