Weddings & Honeymoons

Ideas & inspiration for your big day

If your big day is on the horizon, we’ve got you covered – from making your wedding ecofriendly to emerging honeymoon trends and everything in between! This pull-out-and-keep guide offers a plethora of ideas, inspiration and tips for those getting hitched – enjoy!

HOW TO LET DOWN NON-INVITEES GENTLY

Not inviting someone to your wedding can be a difficult decision, and it's important to handle the situation in a way that is respectful and considerate. Here are some ideas on how to make the situation that little bit easier…

• Be direct: Be honest and direct in your communication. Explain the reasons why the person is not being invited, whether it's due to budget constraints, venue limitations etc

• Be empathetic: Put yourself in the person's shoes and understand that not being invited to a wedding can be hurtful. Acknowledge their feelings and offer words of understanding and support.

Emerging honeymoon trends to consider

• Offer an alternative: If possible, offer the person an alternative way to be involved in the wedding celebration, such as hosting a pre- or post-wedding gathering.

• Keep it private: Avoid discussing the decision with others, as this can be hurtful to the person and may cause further issues. Instead, have a private conversation with the person to discuss the matter.

• Be gracious: No matter the reason for not inviting someone, it's important to remain respectful and gracious in your communication. Thank the person for their understanding and offer your best wishes for their future.

• Adventure holidays: The UK is home to some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes, and adventurous couples are taking advantage of this to explore the great outdoors, go hiking, and participate in other outdoor activities.

• Cultural experiences: The UK has a rich history and culture, and many couples are choosing to immerse themselves in this by visiting historic cities, such as London, Oxford and Bath, and attending cultural events, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

• Eco-friendly travel: Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important issue for many travellers; in the UK we’re lucky to have a range of eco-friendly and sustainable hotels and resorts on our doorstep.

Honeymoons are a special time for newlyweds to celebrate and relax after their wedding, and the UK has a lot to offer as a honeymoon destination. Here are some popular honeymoon trends to inspire you…

• Rural retreats: Increasing numbers of couples are seeking out peaceful and secluded locations in the UK, such as countryside cottages, historic castles, and cosy inns, sometimes taking inspiration from film and TV locations.

• Foodie experiences: There is a thriving food scene throughout our cities, and many couples are choosing to sample the local cuisine on their honeymoon, from traditional pub food to gourmet dining experiences.

• Spa breaks: Relaxation and rejuvenation are key components of many honeymoons. Do some research and you’ll find some of the world's most luxurious spa resorts, offering a range of treatments and facilities.

An eco-friendly wedding is a great way to celebrate your special day whilst also being mindful of the environment. Here are some tips to help make your big day more sustainable:

1. Choose a green venue: Look for somewhere that is environmentally conscious, such as a park, garden or a location that utilises renewable energy sources.

2. Reduce waste: Encourage guests to bring their own reusable water bottles and consider using reusable plates, glasses and utensils instead of disposable ones. You can also donate leftover food to a local food bank or shelter.

3. Use locally grown flowers and plants: Using locally grown flowers and plants reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

4. Reduce paper waste: Consider sending electronic invitations or use recycled paper for physical invitations. You can also opt for digital programmes, menus and place cards.

5. Use environmentally-friendly transport: Encourage guests to share lifts or use public transport to reduce the carbon footprint of your wedding. You can also consider renting electric vehicles for the wedding party.

6. Support sustainable fashion: Encourage the wedding party to wear clothing made from sustainable materials or consider renting outfits instead of buying new ones.

7. Choose sustainable catering options: Seek out catering companies that use local and organic ingredients and minimise food waste. Consider offering vegetarian or vegan options to reduce your carbon footprint.

8. Select sustainable decor: Use natural and biodegradable materials, such as bamboo, for wedding decorations instead of plastic or other non-renewable materials.

9. Support local businesses: Use local vendors for flowers, decorations and other wedding-related services to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transport. Use the advertisers in this supplement to show your support for local businesses – and help keep money in the local economy too – a win-win!

10. Create a low-waste bar: Consider offering a signature drink instead of a full bar, or choose a venue that uses reusable glasses instead of disposable ones.

11. Choose eco-friendly stationery: Use seed paper for your wedding invitations, which can be planted to grow flowers, or choose paper made from recycled materials.

12. Choose eco-friendly favours: Give guests eco-friendly favours, such as potted plants or seeds, instead of disposable trinkets.

Tips for grooms before the big day

Get involved in the planning: Don't just leave all the wedding planning to your partner. Offer to help with tasks, such as choosing the venue, selecting the menu and organising transport.

Look after yourself: Make sure to get plenty of rest, exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet in the weeks leading up to the wedding. Schedule a haircut or grooming appointment and ensure your suit fits well.

Practise your speech: Your wedding speech is a key moment in the day, and it's important to make sure it's well-prepared. Practise your speech in front of a mirror or a trusted friend to build confidence and iron out any nerves.

Plan your transport: Make sure clear transport arrangements for the big day are made in advance and communicate clearly with the driver.

Be a good host: As a groom, it's important to be a gracious host and make sure your guests are well taken care of. This includes greeting guests, making introductions and ensuring everyone is comfortable.

Take time to relax: The wedding day can be stressful, so it's important to take some time to relax and calm your nerves. Consider scheduling a massage or practicing mindfulness and meditation.

Be present: On the wedding day, focus on the present moment and enjoy the experience. This is a special day that you will remember for the rest of your life, so make sure to savour every moment.

Did you know…?

25% of UK couples chose a destination wedding in 2021

Money.co.uk

The Coney Suite At The Warren Perfect For

A beautiful function room and the ideal place to hold that special celebration and invite friends and family to celebrate with you.

The dance floor is located in front of the stage where a DJ or live band can entertain your guests into the night. The bar is located at the entrance to the room and has some additional seating.

The room lighting colours can be changed to suit the ambience you are looking for and match your wedding or function theme.

The secluded garden is ideal for photographs and a reception drink in good weather.

Please contact us to book your viewing.