17 minute read
BRIDE GUIDE
Family Jewellers Since 1919
Visit us at The Centre:MK
The essential Pulse guide for couples planning their weddings in 2023/24
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Say “I do” with Beaverbrooks
Erica Young, store manager at Beaverbrooks Milton Keynes, offers her top tips to help you find the perfect wedding rings
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.
Erica Young (inset) store manager at Beaverbrooks Milton Keynes
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. 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. 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 1919
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
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
Rushton Hall
Pic: whitestagweddings.com
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
Dodford Manor
Horwood House
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
Petal power
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
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, 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
PLANNING A WEDDING?
Find the perfect dress for your big day
14th – 28th February - Bridal Boutique, Leighton Buzzard
• Wedding gowns £150 - £500 • bridesmaids dresses • mother-of-the-bride outfits
To book, please call us on 01525 854420
