Bride Guide Feb 2023

Getting organised for your perfect day

Going down on one knee and popping the question is the easy bit.

If you have been given the right answer and they have said ‘I do’, you and your best friend are now agreeing to take your commitment to the next level.

But first, you’ll take on the all-consuming role of wedding planner with your partner (unless you decide to invite someone into your bubble to take care of that stuff for you).

Most of us choose to take on the burden (it might feel like that on occasion!) ourselves, and while thoughts of perfect wedding days are romantic, the best way to achieve all that you want is to be organised with a capital O!

Spreadsheets might not be all about hearts and flowers, but they will enable smooth planning, prevent brain fog and keep your blood pressure in the correct range – so reach for the laptop.

First things first, and you need to name the day so that you have something to work towards.

What time of the year? How far into the future will it be? Do you dream of a sundrenched day surrounded by family and friends, or would you rather take advantage of the colder months of the year, which offer their own appeal – think of frosty mornings and winter wonderland-themed receptions.

They can be every bit as magical, and offpeak weddings are naturally kinder on the bank balance, too.

Perhaps you already have your dream venue in mind. But if you’ve no idea, it’s time to google, and ask for recommendations. We’ve given you a few beautiful opportunities to investigate in the area, too – turn the page for those.

How does your day look? Perhaps you will want to keep things small and intimate for the ceremony and meal, followed by a significant evening celebration, or maybe you want everyone there to share every moment with you.

It’s time to get the guest list into some form – and don’t worry when it changes. It probably will, frequently!

Where is the evening venue? What about hotel stays for guests travelling a distance? Many hotels will offer deals and bulk bookings, so think ahead to prevent issues down the line.

Speaking of the floral side, petal power rules and a florist will need to be in place in good time, although you don’t need to discuss the specifics at such an early stage.

Whatever your choices, you will want a record of your special day, so employing the correct photographer and videographer is important. After all, there are no second chances to get it right. Letting Uncle Jimmy sway around with his mobile phone ‘capturing’ the action won’t suffice, and you know so.

‘Save the date’ cards need to be sent out with lots of warning. You can purchase them, but with a little effort, you can produce something pretty and unique to you.

It’s worth bearing in mind that peak wedding season is usually between May and October.

Set a budget that works for you, no matter how much or how little, but stick to it.

Occasional wriggle room is ok, but fight the urge to act on impulse – sleep on any decisions which aren’t part of the plan but will leave the bank balance looking poorly!

In 2022, the cost of the average UK wedding came in at a little over £20,000 pounds.

You want to enjoy the day with your new partner, and your friends and family. But do you really want to be starting married life with a wealth of debt?

We’re trying to be a little voice of reason here! When you’ve confirmed your spend, or perhaps simultaneously, you can begin the search for the perfect wedding location and reception spaces, which may be one and the same, if you choose not to opt for a church wedding.

Everyone wants the perfect day, but what that means to every bride and groom will vary tremendously, and there are actually very few things that every wedding dictates as essentials.

Be prepared to get busy with the pen, because though you might not think so, weddings do come with rather a lot of paperwork. And don’t forget the all important Notice of Marriage or Notice of Civil Partnership, the fee is negligible, but nothing is more important.

Organising a wedding is huge fun too, and a chance to explore your creativity; what theme will the day take? Will it be demure and traditional? Colourful and creative? Or something off-the-wall bonkers and unique? This is your show, so be as bold as you feel comfortable with.

What colours do you have in mind? They might feed into everything from bridesmaid dresses to table settings and floral arrangements, so don’t pick in haste!

The same goes for the wedding invitations – keep them simple, cute, or elegant. It’s all down to individual taste.

Of course your prime interest is for your nearest and dearest to be a part of your special day, but it’s also wise to think about your gift list.

If people are keen to give you a gift, would money towards your dream honeymoon be the perfect suggestion?

How will you travel to the ceremony? From elegant motors to the clippety-clop of hooves, these things have to be thought out and enquiries made in good time to avoid disappointment.

There is so much to be organised but if you keep your cool, and get the big things taken care of, the little things will be a whole lot easier to work through.

And if you need help, reach out - you’ll have a network of friends and family keen to support you.

Your wedding day deserves to be every bit as special and unique as you are. Love every moment.

Set a budget that works for you, no matter how much or how little, but stick to it.

Say “I do” with Beaverbrooks

Budget

Sit down and decide together what you’d like to spend. You’ll be wearing your wedding rings every day for the rest of your life, so it’s worth investing in your forever pieces, so you really will cherish them for a lifetime.

At Beaverbrooks

Milton Keynes we love being a part of our customers most special celebrations and we know that finding your perfect wedding ring is really important on the journey to your special day.

With over 100 years of expertise, let us help you find the perfect wedding rings for you and your loved one, that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Start your search early

It’s a good idea to set some time aside to shop for your wedding rings, as some rings can take several weeks to be ordered and we want you to have plenty of time to make sure they really are perfect. It’s also important to get your ring size right first time, to avoid any delays.

Choose a style you’ll love forever

Wedding rings come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. For the groom, different metals and styles may be a factor, and for the bride, you may need to plan your wedding ring around your engagement ring so they sit together perfectly. Our fully trained experts will be able to help you find your ‘perfect match.’

Consider your lifestyle and type of work when choosing your wedding rings, as you may need to choose a metal such as platinum, as this will really stand the test of time.

We have wedding rings to suit every budget at Beaverbrooks, and we offer Interest Free Credit which gives you the option of spreading the cost of your purchase over a period that suits you.

Always remember aftercare

At Beaverbrooks, we offer a lifetime of cleaning and inspection with each wedding ring to help you make sure your ring looks as beautiful as it did the day you bought it.

Book a personal appointment: Online: Beaverbrooks.co.uk/appointments

Email: miltonkeynes.branch@beaverbrooks.co.uk Call: 01908 691998

Visit us: 27/29, Crown Walk, The Centre:MK, Milton Keynes, MK9 3AH

Family Jewellers Since 1 9 1 9

Visit us at 27/29, Crown Walk, The Centre:MK, Milton Keynes, MK9 3AH Speak to a consultant on 01908 691998 or Email miltonkeynes.branch@beaverbrooks.co.uk Book an appointment at Beaverbrooks.co.uk/appointments

Erica Young, store manager at Beaverbrooks Milton Keynes, offers her top tips to help you find the perfect wedding rings

Erica Young (inset) store manager at Beaverbrooks Milton Keynes

The right time, the right place

Finding the perfect backdrop for your wedding sets the mood for all that follows, and we are lucky to have some truly spectacular settings within easy reach. When it comes to the wow factor, these are among the very best.

‘Imagine a beautiful collection of historic and contemporary barns nestled within a gorgeous country estate, amidst miles of rolling countryside,’ and then imagine no more –because Dodford Manor delivers just that.

Your wedding day is unlike any other, so you’ll want the perfect setting, and Dodford delivers, with a 1680’s threshing barn, 1790s Dairy Barn and contemporary glass walled Oak Barn, all set within a stunning country estate. Dodford Manor is perfect, with miles of rolling countryside. Awards? They have more than a few, including the 2018 win, Best UK Country Venue!

A fabulous venue which works just as well for intimate gatherings as it does for large parties.

Discover more:

W: dodfordmanor-venue.co.uk

T: 01327 349761

E: enquiries@dodfordmanor-venue.co.uk

Who doesn’t want to make a splash on their wedding day? Hellidon Lakes is a picture-perfect location in the Northamptonshire countryside, which boasts a magical waterfall and eight lakes spaced amongst the 220 acres of green and pleasant land.

Wedding parties of all sizes have a choice of stunning spaces for champagne receptions, outdoor weddings, ceremonies, dining and dancing at the Daventry location.

For a ‘waterfall’ wedding, visit W: hellidonlakeshotel.co.uk

T: 01327 2625550

E: events@hellidonlakeshotel.co.uk

Positioned just 11 miles from the new city of Milton Keynes in the rural tranquility of the Buckinghamshire countryside, Horwood House has more than a century of charm and period character to backdrop your event, including a grand staircase, spectacular chandeliers, leadlight windows and intricate stonework.

Outside is just as spectacular, with manicured lawns and a tranquil lily pond, which is perhaps not so surprising, given that legendary gardener Percy Thrower was born at Horwood House – his horticultural influence is everywhere.

The hotel has recently undergone a top-to-toe refurbishment too, and oozes country chic.

If you are interested in saying ‘I do’ in this stunning setting, click to W: horwoodhouse.co.uk

E: weddings@horwoodhouse.co.uk

T: 01296 722100

Your wedding day will be historic, so find a setting to match; Rushton Hall definitely ticks the box!

The magnificent Grade I Listed Country House hotel in Kettering is nestled in 25 acres of gorgeous grounds, and original features from its build in the 15th century includes stunning architecture, grand wooden floors and roaring log fires. The Orangery overlooks stunning gardening and provides a beautiful backdrop for images you will cherish forever.

‘...celebrate in one of the grandest wedding venues where traditional elegance meets modern indulgence in the best possible way,’ is the invitation.

For a decadent experience unlike any other, visit

W: rushtonhall.com

T: 01536 713001

E: weddings@rushtonhall.com

Located on the edge of Kettering with easy access to the wider Northamptonshire countryside, Kettering Park Hotel & Spa is a beautiful venue for your wedding day. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave as a newly married couple, the events team and staff are devoted to making your special day everything you could want it to be.

Find out more: W: ketteringparkhotel.co.uk

T: 01536 416666

E: events@ketteringparkhotel.co.uk

You could choose to turn the beautiful Grade II listed Delapré Abbey into yours for the day. Whether you’re planning an elaborate celebration or something intimate, Delapré Abbey can provide a bespoke service from ceremony, breakfast, through to evening reception. Catering for all sorts of special events including weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, hen and stag parties, and more.

The Abbey has a range of stunning photographic opportunities available – the walled garden, the parkland, the grand staircase, Victorian tiled hallway and for group shots our courtyard is sure to be a favourite.

Delapré Abbey will also be offering rooms for the bridal party to get ready in, to be pampered with a glass of bubbly whilst putting those final touches to hair and make-up

For a wedding with a difference, visit W: delapreabbey.org/weddings

T: 01604 974421

E: events@delapreabbey.org

Horwood House

Dodford Manor

Rushton Hall

Pic: whitestagweddings.com

There is an enormous checklist of things to sort to ensure that your special day is bloomin’ marvellous – but choosing the right flowers is surely one of the most satisfying parts.

Georgianna Gillings runs Milton Keynes-based Jade Flower Boutique and has been in business since 2008. She was bitten by the flower bug (not in the literal sense!) from the get-go years earlier: “On my first day on the job I worked on a wedding, helping out and learning as I went along, and I’ve loved it ever since.”

The perfect floral scheme is as important as the right dress or suit, or cake; these elements all lock together to deliver the day you want and deserve.

Georgianna’s advice is to find a florist that you like and get them signed up as soon as you’re able.

“It’s ideal to try and book them as soon as you find one that you feel understands your ideas and vision for the wedding,” she told Pulse, “I have couples booking as early as two years in advance, but I can work with much shorter time

frames, so long as the date is available in my diary.

“It’s great if people have a rough idea of what they need; bridal bouquet, how many bridesmaid bouquets, buttonholes, and any decoration and table arrangements, which will help me to guide on schemes and give ideas.

“Very natural styles with lots of foliage and neutral colours for the flowers,” are the preferred choices for couples tying the knot in 2023, says Georgianna, “Pale blues, pinks and greens are still very popular, as they were last year.

“Flowers bring the room alive, bring the outdoors in and fill the space with the most beautiful of scents. They can completely change a dark room with bold vibrant blooms, or create a subtle romantic look with pale tones.”

> For more information on your flower journey visit jadeflowerboutique.co.uk or visit FB: jadeflowerboutique

Petal power Confetti

The origins of confetti can be traced back to pagan times, but although the exact materials thrown have changed the tradition still stands.

Showering the newlyweds in confetti when they leave their ceremony has long been a thing, and the first paper confetti originated in Italy in 1875. Two decades later and the UK had adopted the tradition.

Seeing the multi-coloured paper pieces blowing around a church frontage would give away that nuptials had recently been held there. But though it may be pretty, it is still litter, and when eaten by our wildlife, can prove nasty. And plastic confetti doesn’t break down, but adds to pollution. Things are changing and in recent years many venues will welcome you to say ‘I do’, but themselves say, ‘We don’t’ when it comes to allowing confetti on their land.

But you can still have your confetti – simply consider using biodegradable products.

Nature’s natural colours are the prettiest, they

won’t leave a mess and will decompose naturally.

Leaves are perfect, and can be holepunched to create wonderful patterns.

Of course florals are fantastic, and The Real Flower Petal Confetti Company has been ‘handpicking the best petals since 1997,’ and their easy to navigate website is the answer to every question you’ll ever think of. Pretty and perfect.

Going to the chapel and we're... going to say what?

Wedding vows and the exchange of rings might be a small part of the wedding day, but they are the most important bit, so they need to be right for you both.

Your first vow should be one to yourself that won't be read out on the day – you should vow to get everything just right!

Will you opt for the traditional vows or will you choose your own? And if you do opt for something bespoke, modern and unique, please make sure that you put down on paper what you want to say long before you are on the way to the service!

You don't need to be a great wordsmith, but if you are struggling, speak to a professional, or ask a friend to help. As long as the sentiment is yours, a little help is ok. Whether traditional, modern, civil ceremony or non-denominational a few things apply for all; the words are about you and your partner promising to be there for each other, and declaring your love for each other in front of those who mean the most to you.

Wedding inspiration at the Bridal Boutique

Celebrate the season of love with mystery discounts and a glass of bubbly, when you arrive for your appointment from 14th – 28th February 2023

Brand new wedding dresses Pre-loved gowns Mother-of-the-bride Bridesmaid and party dresses

Be inspired for your big day, no matter where you are in the planning process!

The Bridal Boutique is owned and run by Willen Hospice, and you’ll find it upstairs in the Leighton Buzzard shop.

Helen or Sally will be on hand to welcome you when you come in for your one-to-one ‘trying on’ appointment.

They said: “We want you to feel unique and exquisite on your wedding day. We will do all we can to suggest a range of dresses to try,

PLANNING A WEDDING?

and help you find something amazing that flatters and completes your look. You’ll have the whole space to yourself so you can feel relaxed and have fun choosing your dress.

“We’ve been privileged to be able to buy up ranges of brand new, unworn dresses to offer you. Or take a look at the beautiful, preloved gowns that are donated to us when someone passes on their treasured outfit for another bride to enjoy. And with the cost of our dresses ranging between £150 and £500, there is something perfect for every bride’s budget.”

While you’re there, look for bridesmaid or mother-of the bride outfits that will make others in your wedding party feel fantastic as they share your big day. We can also put you in touch with someone who does alterations at a reasonable price.

Viewing is by appointment only. To arrange a time, please call us on 01525 854420, email to: LeightonBuzzardShop@willen-hospice.org.uk or visit our Willen Hospice shop.

Willen Hospice Shop, 7 High Street, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1DN

Plan your wedding table!

Thinking of having wedding favours on your tables? Ask about our Willen Hospice Lottery tickets or Scratchcards, and give someone a chance to win prizes of up to £1,000 as they celebrate your wedding day*. (Over 18s only) We also have children’s favours to keep little hands busy as you enjoy your celebration.

*Full terms and conditions at willen-hospice.org.uk/lottery

Find the perfect dress for your big day

14th – 28th February - Bridal Boutique, Leighton Buzzard

Celebrate the season of love with mystery discounts and a glass of bubbly, when you arrive for your appointment.

• Wedding gowns £150 - £500 • bridesmaids dresses • mother-of-the-bride outfits To book, please call us on 01525 854420

Shopping with us helps provide compassionate end of life care

Because it’s His Day too!

Grooms: we have everything you need to be completely involved in the planning of your wedding. Brides: Let him know we’ve got his back.

His Day is on a mission to make sure the groom(s) have the wedding resources they need, readily available so that they can have as much involvement in the process as they would like.

We are a future Husband and Wife team, David and Anna. We got engaged in 2022 and are planning our 2023 wedding. After attending a few wedding fairs, it became very clear that there was very little to nothing for the groom to see or do at these events.

That’s why we created our own groom community, aimed towards the groom, giving them the resources and ideas they need to get involved with the planning of their special day, because after all, it’s His Day too.

Much more than wedding fairs, His Day will give the groom somewhere to go for ideas, insights, and know-how on what to do in the

build up to their wedding, and how to make their special day as perfect as possible.

We are bringing you wedding fairs with an emphasis on men, an online community of like minded grooms, and a catalogue of resources to help with the whole process.

> Where to find us?

Website: www.hisday.co.uk

Instagram: Hisdayweddingfairs

A slice of perfection

Euthymia Cakes owner Eva Cockrell has been whipping up wonderful wedding treats for clients for more than a decade.

A pastry chef and dietician with a fine eye for detail, she uses high-quality ingredients to deliver breathtaking wedding cakes, cake pops, pastries and cupcakes for those special occasions. Prefer vegan? Eva can sort that for you, too.

Euthymia Cakes is based in Milton Keynes, but covers Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire.

She walked us through the steps to wedding cake success.

“Although it might seem like a long time in advance, I would recommend allowing at least six to 18 months to start planning and contacting any suppliers that have caught your attention,” Eva advises, “Especially if your chosen date is one of the popular ones, and there are a few!”

Having a chat with your chosen cake creator nice and early will allow them to get a feel for your wedding, understand your theme and your wishes, and work towards what you want – and if you don’t know what that is, they can help with that too.

You don’t want an average cake for your big day, so there won’t be an average price either.

“There are so many factors that influence the price of the cake,” Eva said, “The size, shape, amount of tiers, quality of ingredients, custom colours, decoration, level of skill of the cake decorator, and then of course there is the amount of labour that each single part will take.”

Wedding dress fashions aren’t the only thing that change - cakes do too.

“Just like dress fashion, cake fashion follows very closely,” she agrees, “The pantone for 2023 is magenta and I can already see lots more orders for pink wedding cakes.

“Semi-naked wedding cakes are still popping up on social media, but there has been a decline in recent years due to the hot weather,” Eva revealed, “Cakes covered with sugar paste/fondant are easier to travel over long distances, because they usually have a sturdy chocolate ganache underneath the sugar paste.

“Classic florals, edible flowers and textures are very much on trend. Wedding cakes are now also more personal than ever, reflecting the couple themselves with colours and textures used for the wedding day.”

And never let anyone tell you otherwise – cake is important!

“Cake is more than a tradition, it is the focal point of the room, and unique edible art,” Eva added.

> Let Eva create sweet magic for your special day. Visit euthymia.co.uk or find her on FB and Instagram at EuthymiaCakes

(Everyone’s crazy ‘bout) a sharp dressed man

Let’s be honest, when it comes to weddings, everyone wants to know about the dress – but that is only half the story. There is a groom to consider, too!

Men dress to impress as well, and it’s not as simple as just swapping from casual wear to any old suit. There is just as much thought that goes into the groom’s attire, and that of his best man, the father of the bride...and so on.

Northampton-based Saint Crispin Bespoke Menswear knows how to give leading men their perfect styling for the perfect day – irrespective of whether the wedding will happen at home, or away.

Dean Anderson has spent three and a half decades dressing men, and there have been lots of natural changes with the passing of time.

“Men of all ages are now far more conscious of their visual appearance than ever before, and many have never needed to wear a suit ever, so there is even more pressure to find the right suiting,” he explained.

A wedding suit is never ‘just’ a suit, and creativity rules here too!

“It needs to reflect the formality of the surroundings and how the bride is dressed,” Dean explains, “A bespoke suit will allow the groom to create his own very individual stamp, while also taking into consideration the bride’s colour themes.

“The sky’s the limit from the selection of fabric type, colour, linings, button finishes to hidden touches of the couples’ initials on the inside of the jacket or on the cuff. Everything is chosen to the groom’s specifications.

“The groom’s suit is vitally important in the overall look and feel of the occasion,” Dean added.

The same attention will be given to all the groom’s men and the father of the bridewhether a formal two-piece single breasted suit, or a double breasted three piece suit, it needs to be perfect.

If you are thinking of holding your church or civil ceremony abroad, you’ll also need to take into account the heat – you’ll still need to cut a sharp figure and any tailor worth his salt, and given enough notice, can sort that for you.

You need to look as though you are keeping your cool irrespective of those rising temperatures!

Remember, bespoke garments take time to create, and Dean advises that you give your tailor at least six month’s notice. The perfect fit really is just a call away.

> Visit Saint Crispin Bespoke Menswear at saintcrispin.co.uk

Email enquiries@saintcrispin.co.uk or call 01604 589907

Euthymia Cakes can design a cake that matches your theme for the day or something that just shouts ‘you’

Get the bespoke look for your Wedding Day

You will never be able to compare a bespoke made suit to an o the peg alternative.

Church or civil ceremony, at home or abroad. Wherever your dream wedding is we can help you nd the best, bespoke, high quality wedding suits.

Watch our Wedding Suits video and nd out more