MY
Wedding
PLANNER
MY
Wedding My FiancĂŠe
When we met...
Where we met... When we got engaged
Selfie!
The Proposal
OUR
Guest List
PLAN
Your day
12 - 18 MONTHS TO GO First things first, set the date. This might need to be flexible if you have your heart set on a venue or overseas wedding.
The Date
NOTES:
The Venue
The Budget
£
Set your budget & allow a small amount for contingency. Try to be as realistic as possible & if the budget is tight just pick what’s important to you. With the budget in mind, take out wedding insurance.
NOTES:
Work out your guest list. Be prepared for this to take a while!
No of guests:
TOP TIP Have 2 lists, 1 with everyone on & 1 with just family & close friends. Once you’re
Book your Church or Registrar.
budge & venue is set, start with 1 list and either add or take away to fit.
Venue GUIDE
www.kilworthhouse.co.uk/weddings
1
The best starting point is your budget & no of guests. Once you have this in place you can then start your list of venues.
Where to start when it comes to picking your dream venue....
2
www.murrayedwardsevents.com
3
Does it need accommodation for you and your guests?
What kind of venue? Formal, informal, small or large, City or country?
www.bssevents.com
TOP TIP Have a do’s & don’t ’s list to help with picking your venue. EG you ’do’ want it to be local, you ‘don’t ’ want it to be formal etc... www.woburnweddings.co.uk
4
Does it fit with the theme you have in mind?
Theme GUIDE
How to choose your wedding theme colours.... Pick different hues of a single colour and use an accent to make it pop! www.talkingtables.co.uk
There is also the old saying that opposites attract! It’s the same for colours too... Or if you want to use lots of different colours, pick them from the same hue in the colour wheel to get a good match. www.hanginglanterns.co.uk
www.sarahsflowers.co.uk
Similarly colours next to each other on the colour wheel work well too.
TOP TIP The best way to start is to create a mood board - cut out your favourite things from magazines & use colour charts
www.heartinvites.com
For pure opulence go for metallics.
from your local DIY store.
www.imaginediy.co.uk
PLAN
Your day
9 - 12 MONTHS TO GO Now that the planning is well under way, it’s time to start booking some of the essentials.
The Photographer
The Cake Artist
The Videographer
The Florist
DAY:
Decide on your entertainment. You might be looking at having a DJ for the evening, but what to have during the day? Now’s the time to decide and start booking it in.
Find & send out your Save The Date cards Book your honeymoon P
Book hotel rooms at your venue for your wedding party if needed.
TOP TIP It ’s important to meet your photographer before you book, it ’s not just about their style but knowing that you like them and feel comfortable with them as this will ensure relaxed and beautiful photographs.
EVENING:
The best bit begins... ...looking for your wedding dress, bridesmaids & flower girl dresses DESIGNERS I LIKE:
Traditional/Classic
Photography
These are staged, formal images where sections of the Bridal party are asked to pose for specific photographs www.clairejohnsonphotography.co.uk
GUIDE
Pick your photography style....
Artisitc & Dramatic
These are particularly popular with couples who have booked an exceptionally dramatic venue. These shots are again posed using the aesthetics of the venue’s surroundings.
www.keylightphotography.co.uk
www.sallylowe.co.uk
Documentary/Reportage
www.michaelsouthwickphotography.com
These are a fun and informal way of having your wedding documented from start to finish. Very informal and unintrusive.
www.amandakarenphotography.co.uk
www.michaelsouthwickphotography.com
He’s popped the question... Now you pop yours...
Cards £1.50 each Countdown Plaques £5 each www.shop-4.co.uk
Cotton Canvas Tote Bags £3
www.shop-4.co.uk
Get Personal Fabulous gift ideas for your wedding party and guests
Drop Top Frame £23
Great Guest Book ideas
Classic personalised guest book £19.99
Personalised guest book frame £19.99
Hen Party Gifts
Mr & Mrs personalised guest book £19.99
Keep the children entertained on the day
Personalised Boys & Girls colouring books £8.99 each Personalised Wedding activity book £14.99 with personalised stickers throughout the book. Pack of 12 personalised colouring pencils £7.99
Great personalised ideas for your hen do, cocktail glass £14.99, tote bag £9.99 & velour slippers £8.99, perfect for a spa weekend.
Shop til you
The Mermaid & Trumpet
A sexy style, great for most figures especially hourglass & those confident with their body shape.
DROP
How to pick the perfect dress
My Wedding Dress BUDGET:
MY BODY SHAPE: www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk Dress style: Florence
STYLES I LIKE:
www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk Dress style: Palma
Necklines
FAVOURITE DESIGNERS:
High Neck
Sweetheart
For those with either a fuller bust and/or apple shaped
Perfect for slim figures
Dress Styles
The A-Line
www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk Dress style: Kayleigh
The Empire
A lovely style for those with a small bust and boyish figures. This is also great for petites.
Perfect style for those that are pear-shaped or have a boyish figure. Fitted at the bodice with a gentle flare to create that A-line shape.
The Ball Gown
www.pure-bridal.co.uk Dress style: Avon
A great style for all body types especially if you want accentuate your waist. The perfect princess style dress. www.philcollinsbridal.co.uk Dress style: P6957
TOP TIP Most bridal shops are by appointment only, so book early to get the best times. It ’s also worth visiting a wedding show where there’s a vast selection of dresses to see & try on. Queen Anne
Ideal for petite brides
Scoop Neck
Flatters those with a triangle shape where the shoulders are wider than the hips
V Neck
Great for apple shapes and hourglass. Not ideal for those with a smaller bust
Same colour, different Styles
www.elizaandethan.com
If you have bridesmaids that are a completely different shape and size, why not opt for different style dresses but in the same colour? A multiwrap dress is perfect for this as you can style it to suit your bridesmaid.
Little Mistress
Same style, different colours You could opt for the same style of dress but have it in different colours, especially if this ties in with your wedding theme.
Different styles, & different colours!
Little Mistress
Lipsy Dress Style: Bella
Little Mistress
This is your big day, so if you want to go for different styles & colours, you can. Whether they are tonal colours or contrasting, it is entirely up to you!
TOP TIP Discuss with your bridesmaids early on what type of dresses you like and what they like as well. Be open to ideas and go for lots of trying on days!
Bridesmaids
& FLOWER GIRLS Choosing colours & styles for your bridesmaids
My bridesmaids & flower girl dresses www.monsoon.com
Flower Girls
BUDGET:
www.debenhams.com
Choosing a flower girls dress should be fairly easy apart from choosing which dress is the cutest!
COLOURS:
STYLES: www.debenhams.com
www.monsoon.com
1. Price
Top Tips
Consumers
looking to avoid
fake goods will, in some cases,
ignore any too-good-to-be-true prices
How to avoid a fake wedding dress
advertised on the Internet, but counterfeiters are becoming wiser and realising that they
actually have more chance of fooling shoppers the
less they reduce the price. Therefore, it is important
to know the genuine recommended retail price (RRP) of the dress and then use this as a benchmark. If there is a discount of any significance — even if it’s just 10% or 20% off — it’s always worth doing some further research to see if
The availability of fake goods on the Internet has grown substantially during recent years, and all consumers, including brides-to-be, are being advised to adopt the same vigilant approach with their online purchases as they would have in the physical world. Online brand protection experts, MarkMonitor, has compiled the following list of top tips to ensure that brides-to-be are extra vigilant when shopping online
these savings are legitimate.
Counterfeiters
By Chrissie Jamieson, senior director, MarkMonitor, a brand of Clarivate Analytics
5. Online marketplaces
can be extremely good
at creating fake websites that
appear genuine, making it difficult for
shoppers to make the right judgement call.
Finally,
In cases like this, it’s always worth looking at
for those looking
the website’s ‘About’ and/or ‘FAQ’ sections, as
for a bargain through online
counterfeiters are usually less careful with the
marketplaces, shoppers should
detail on these pages. If they do not include
thoroughly check the reviews of the
vital company information, for example
seller they are looking to buy from. If
the delivery details or where the
the reviews are overwhelmingly positive
company is based, it is best
then you can assume the seller is
to steer clear.
trustworthy, but if reviews are mostly negative, it’s worth checking out the other options available.
4. The website URL
2. The website
Often,
counterfeiters will use URL
addresses that are confusingly similar
to those of genuine brands’ but include
subtle spelling mistakes or typo errors, in the
hope that customers unknowingly visit these type of sites — a method known as ‘cybersquatting’.
3. Return and privacy policies Any
legitimate
website will make these
policies clear to shoppers, as
they are important for those who
Therefore, before buying anything, shoppers
need to return an item that is faulty or
on to ensure it is 100% correct. It’s also
to find or don’t seem to exist, that
prefix, which indicates the
of counterfeit activity.
should check the URL address of the site they’re
might not fit. If these policies are hard
useful to check the site has a ‘https://’
should be a serious warning sign
website is secure.
OUR
Bridal Party
BRIDESMAID/S
MAID OF HONOUR
FLOWER GIRL/S
PAGE BOY/S
GROOMSMEN/USHERS BEST MAN
Save the date IDEAS
www.above-the-clouds.co.uk
www.GettingPersonal.co.uk www.oflifeandlemons.co.uk
www.gingerray.co.uk
www.heartinvites.com
www.neviti.com www.wildflower-favours.co.uk
TOP TIP Your ‘Save the date’ cards are a great way to experiment with themes and ideas for your big day as they don’t have to match your stationery. www.heartinvites.com
www.above-the-clouds.co.uk
TOP TIP It ’s best to allow for last minute guests and the odd mistake (or spilt cup of tea!) when working out how many invitations you need, but don’t forget that you only need one invitation per household or couple - so you may only need 50 invitations for over 100 guests! www.weddinginateacup.co.uk
Stationery IDEAS
www.feelgoodinvites.com
www.weddinginateacup.co.uk
www.imaginediy.co.uk
www.above-the-clouds.co.uk
www.heartinvites.com
Favour IDEAS
www.wildflower-favours.co.uk
www.GettingPersonal.co.uk
www.weddinginateacup.co.uk www.lindyscakes.co.uk
www.neviti.com
TOP TIP As well as thanking your guests for being there, favours can be a fun and economical way to help set the scene for the day. Think personalised seed packets for a rural barn setting, or hangover help kits for when you want your guests to really let loose!
www.weddinginateacup.co.uk
www.kiss-air.com
PLAN
Your day
6 - 9 MONTHS TO GO
Send out your invitations
Send them to your wedding party, relatives and definite guests.
Choose your gift list
Book your wedding transport. There’s more to planning your transport than you might think. You’ll need to work out timings and allow for traffic & do you want to transport all your guests as well?. BUDGET:
MY IDEAL TRANSPORT:
Buy your shoes, underwear & accessories.
Plan your perfect honeymoon
Choose your hairstylist & makeup artist
MY TOP 5 DESTINATIONS: 1 2 3 4 5
Check your passports are in date TOP TIP If your budget won’t stretch to the perfect honeymoon & you already have the usual wedding gifts: toaster/kettle etc, why not opt for a honeymoon gift list ?
Choose your wedding rings Visit & book your caterer
Honeymoon DESTINATIONS Where to go?
1. Adventure Honeymoon? www.rtctravel.co.uk
If you’re looking for something a bit different and fancy an adventure then these might be the honeymoons for you.
1. Visit Lapland to see the Northern Lights, Snowmobile Safari, Snow Village & more. 2. Go on an unforgettable adventure on Safari in Tanzania. 3. Go back in time to experience the gold fever of the Far West at Portaventura World.
2.
3.
www.portaventuraworld.com
www.flightcentre.co.uk
Bucket List Honeymoon? 1. We’ve picked our favourite destinations from the top 30 bucket list destinations & trips to do. 1. A road trip across the USA. 2. Sail the Galapagos Islands. 3. Go on a luxury tour of Kerala, South India.
2.
www.flightcentre.co.uk
3.
www.flightcentre.co.uk
www.globetravelcentre.com
1. Fiji
www.fiji.travel
2. Mexico
3. St Lucia
www.windjammer-landing.com
www.thomson.co.uk
4. Seychelles
www.alphonse-island.com
Idyllic Beach Honeymoon?
The perfect honeymoon for you might be the relaxing beach front honeymoon with endless golden sands...
1. The Bahamas
www.bahamas.co.uk
The Mini-Moon
With many couples having extremely busy lives and work commitments the “mini moon” is very popular. Many couples getting married for the second time also have to consider making child care arrangements.
Cape Town
A few years ago the term mini-moon was unheard of but now they have become a very popular short honeymoon. What better way to celebrate your nuptials if time is not on your side. As a couple one of your first big joint decisions could be “what type of mini-moon should we have”. Whatever you decide, be it relaxing on the beach, an action packed few days or culture in a city, we will put together the perfect package for you. The mini moon allows the couple to gain the romance and seclusion that they desire while at the same time does not take them away for too long so that it impacts on their working lives and other commitments Here we have a selection of our six best mini-moons, of course mini- moons are as varied as the couples wishing to go on them, just ask us for what you require and we will make it happen, almost by magic.
New York
Does it need an introduction? The city that never sleeps. The Big Apple. The most vibrant and exciting City.
Enjoy beautiful Cape Town set between the Ocean and Table Mountain. Track the “Big 5” in an Eastern Cape game reserve.
Italian Lakes Lake Como
Lake Como. Beautiful and atmospheric, has been drawing discerning visitors since the Roman Times. The other lakes also have a great deal to offer.
Venice
Lapland
The Artic Experience, Husky Dog Safari, Snowmobile safari, Northern Lights, Snow Village, Snow Hotel, Just a taste of what Lapland has to offer.
Dubai
Lying in the calm, blue waters of the southern Gulf and flanked by the majestic desert, the iconic city of Dubai. A Top quality Luxury Resort.
Venice is magical, timeless and truly unique; a floating city. A beautiful city with a wealth of historic monuments and a wonderful array of culture and history. For more information: Visit: www.rtctravel.co.uk Call: 01924 283803 Email: info@rtctravel.co.uk
www.horganscars.co.uk
Wedding
TRANSPORT www.horganscars.co.uk
From classic vintage cars to modern or quirky...
www.ucchire.com www.ucchire.com www.ucchire.com
www.quirkyweddingcars.co.uk
www.quirkyweddingcars.co.uk
Jewellery & ACCESSORIES From head to toe...
www.follifollie.co.uk www.silkveil.com
www.debenhams.com
www.rockmyvintage.co.uk www.DaWanda.com www.elegantcrystalbouquets.co.uk
www.DaWanda.com
www.Rjjewellery.co.uk
www.dunelondon.com
PLAN
Your day
3 - 6 MONTHS TO GO Go for your 2nd dress fitting.
Start writing your vows
P
P
Choose your Groomswear. Consult with each other about colours and themes, to guide you on the shirts, ties/ cravats & socks!
Choose readings, poems & hymns
Agree order of service
P
P
Finalise your honeymoon
Book your florist
Choose your music
P
P
P
Start planning those hen & stag parties. This really should be the job of your best man and maid of honour...
PLAN
Your day
3 MONTHS TO GO P
Finalise your guest list
P
Sort out your seating plan
P
Buy gifts for your bridesmaids, best man etc
Sort out who’s doing what and plan your day.
Meet with your photographer to finalise everything for the day.
Write your speeches & thank yous TOP TIP Now is the time to start with facials and testing different make-up - you don’t want any nasty reactions on the day!
PLAN
Your day
1 MONTH TO GO
You should pretty much have everything sorted so use this time to double check things Reconfirm everything you have booked so far & that everything has been paid for
TOP TIP Avoid blisters on the day and start wearing your shoes round the house
Go for your final wedding dress fitting
Contact anyone who hasn’t responded to your invite
Enjoy your Hen & Stag parties
DON’T FORGET THE
Thank yous
Cards & Personalised Gifts all www.shop-4.co.uk
PLAN
Your day
1 WEEK TO GO
The final countdown begins... It’s time to pack for your honeymoon if it’s straight after your wedding
£
Pay any final balances
Collect your dress & groomswear
THE NIGHT BEFORE
Try to spend the day relaxing & get an early night.
TOP TIP Remember this is one of the best days of your life, you’re marrying the man of your dreams. Don’t let the nerves get the better of you, smile & enjoy it!
Shopping
& SERVICES GUIDE Bridal Wear & Menswear
Eliza & Ethan - www.elizaandethan.com Mia Sposa - www.miasposa-centrallondon.co.uk Young’s Hire - www.youngs-hire.co.uk www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk www.philcollinsbridal.co.uk www.pure-bridal.co.uk www.little-mistress.com www.lipsy.co.uk www.debenhams.com www.monsoon.co.uk
Honeymoons & Weddings Abroad
Exclusive Yacht Weddings - www.exclusiveyachtweddings.com Planet Holidays - www.planetweddings.co.uk RTC Travel - www.rtctravel.co.uk www.flightcentre.co.uk www.portaventuraworld.com www.globetravelcentre.com www.thomson.co.uk www.fiji.travel www.windjammer-landing.com www.bahamas.co.uk www.alphonse-island.com
Jewellery & Accessories
Elegant Crystal Bouquets - www.elegantcrystalbouquets.co.uk RJ Jewellers - www.rjjewellers.co.uk www.silkveil.com www.follifollie.co.uk www.DaWanda.com www.dunelondon.com www.rockmyvintage.co.uk
Photography
Amanda Karen Photography www.amandakarenphotography.co.uk www.clairejohnsonphotography.co.uk www.sallylowe.co.uk www.keylightphotography.co.uk www.michaelsouthwickphotography.com
Stationer, Favours & Gifts
Bollington Print Shop - www.print-and-design.com Wedding In A Teacup - www.weddinginateacup.co.uk Shop-4 - www.shop-4.co.uk www.above-the-clouds.co.uk www.GettingPersonal.co.uk www.gingerray.co.uk www.oflifeandlemons.co.uk www.heartinvites.com www.wildflower-favours.co.uk www.neviti.com www.feelgoodinvites.com www.imaginediy.co.uk www.lindyscakes.co.uk www.kiss-air.com
Transport
Ultimate Classic Car Hire - www.ucchire.co.uk www.horganscars.co.uk www.quirkyweddingcars.co.uk
Venues & Decor
Bolton School - www.bssevents.com Kilworth House Hotel - www.kilworthhouse.co.uk/weddings Murray Edwards College - www.murrayedwardsevents.com www.woburnweddings.co.uk www.talkingtables.co.uk www.hanginglanterns.co.uk www.sarahsflowers.co.uk
The Front Cover
Image courtesy of www.pure-bridal.co.uk Dress style: Blondie