wedding 2014
NORTH WALES
GUIDE
The Free essential guide to your wedding day
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
Welcome to your guide to a
perfect wedding... An informative booklet to help you plan your special day For the wedding
Of ...................................................... To ...................................................... On ...................................................... At ......................................................
An essential guide to your wedding
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Planning your wedding... So you’ve decided to commit to each other until death do you part and have announced the news to family and friends? All that’s left is making the whole thing legal and celebrating in style.
Select Your Style So how are you going to do it? Do you want a traditional white wedding in church or would you like a more laid back affair? Perhaps you’d like a ceremony in a hot air balloon, on a beach or in a zoo? While a civil ceremony in the United Kingdom opens up a huge choice of venues, you might want to consider tying the knot in an exotic location. This is a popular option, but requires some thought - while marrying on a beach or ski-slope can cost less than a big white wedding at home, it’s unlikely that all your family and friends would be able to attend. Your budget will help tame and frame your initial ideas, but the choice is ultimately yours.
on a marriage of mixed faiths, a full church marriage service may be difficult to arrange, so speak to the minister involved.
Register Office IT is possible to marry in any office in England and Wales, as long as you live in either country. You both need to be resident in your individual registration districts for seven days before giving notice. Then you must wait a further 16 days before the wedding can take place.
Licensed Premises YOUR local registry office will be able to give you a list of premises licensed for the solemnisation of marriage, which exist, in your area.
Church Wedding
Marrying Abroad
IF you want a religious ceremony, your local place of worship is an obvious choice. In some circumstances it may be possible to marry in another church, but don’t bank on it, as many ministers will want evidence of a good reason for marrying in their parish if they’ve never seen you before.
THERE are a number of ways to marry in a different country. The most simple is with a tour operator that can offer a complete wedding package. The legal requirements vary from country to country, but tour operators will be able to provide you with a detailed checklist.
Banns (the publication of your intention to marry) are read out in church on three consecutive Sundays, and the wedding ceremony must take place within three months. If you are divorced or embarking
Alternatively it is possible to arrange a wedding in another country yourself. Begin by contacting tourist information offices for the country you’d like to marry in and take their advice.
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
The Guest List... THIS area often causes problems! You need to arrive at a guest list, which stays within budget and keeps you and your partner happy as well as your families and friends.
25 people, so if your numbers are limited, divide your guests into those you want at the ceremony and those who you could happily just invite to the evening reception.
Your first consideration is how many people you can afford to invite and still have the kind of reception you want. Practical considerations come into the equation at this point, like the number of people the church, You’ll find that some registry offices only hold
Next decide how many guests each party is going to have allotted to them. Equal shares seem the most democratic option, but it may be that one of you has a much larger family or many more friends. Remain flexible and calm and co-operate where possible.
Name: ............................................... Tel No: .............................................. Email: ................................................ RSVP Received: o
No. in party: ...
Name: ...............................................
Name: ...............................................
Tel No: ..............................................
Tel No: ..............................................
Email: ................................................
Email: ................................................
RSVP Received: o
RSVP Received: o
No. in party: ...
No. in party: ...
Name: ...............................................
Name: ...............................................
Tel No: ..............................................
Tel No: ..............................................
Email: ................................................
Email: ................................................
RSVP Received: o
RSVP Received: o
No. in party: ...
No. in party: ...
“Your first consideration is how many people you can afford to invite and still have the kind of reception you want.” An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
The Flowers... CHECK what flowers are in season - out of season blooms are usually more expensive. If you’re on a really tight budget consider using more foliage and fewer flowers. Consider the fragrance of your flowers as another element of your day. The colour style, length and fabric of your dress should influence your bouquet choice. A simple gown looks great with a cascading arrangement whereas a dress with a full skirt suits a more tightly structured arrangement. To keep your flowers fresh have them delivered as late as possible. Be sure of the competence of any family or friend who offers to help with your flowers; arranging is harder than it looks.
“Consider the fragrance of your flowers as another element of your day.” An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
The Rings... “Before metal the earliest of wedding rings were made from braided grass, hay, leather, bone and ivory and were worn traditionally on the third finger of the left hand, as it was believed that a vein which runs through that finger was directly connected to the heart.” The famous wedding ring is the oldest of all traditions, finding it’s roots in the Egyptian times when in the hieroglyphics, the circle represented eternity. Before metal the earliest of wedding rings were made from braided grass, hay, leather, bone and ivory and were worn traditionally on the third finger of the left hand, as it was believed that a vein which runs through that finger was directly connected to the heart. Wherever you decide to buy your wedding rings from, there are some handy hints that you can follow to ensure the perfect purchase. Always run your fingers over the rings before you buy them, inspecting for any rough or protruding edges. Make sure that when trying the wedding rings on, you do it when your hands are cold. This is because when your hands are hot, the fingers can expand which would result in a false fitting.
75%, is richer in colour and slightly heavier; 24 carat gold is essentially pure cold, almost orange in colour, quite heavy and very soft. Gold is available in a variety of colours, yellow, white, rose, green and even blue. To make sure the colour is what you desire, it is better to check it in natural daylight this is the only way to be sure. You should avoid opting for fashionable rings as it could look dated rather quickly and always ask the jeweller’s advice about cleaning your new ring. Finally, add your new ring to your household insurance. They need to be itemised separately on the policy and covered wherever you are. If you follow all of these steps you can find the perfect ring for your perfect day.
You should choose the same type of metal and carat for both the engagement and wedding rings to avoid one wearing down as they rub together. There are variants in the colours of gold available; 9 carat gold has a gold content of 37.5% which means it is lighter in colour and weight; 18 carat gold has a gold content of
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
Catering...
Firstly, you’ll need to decide whether you want a formal sit down meal or a buffet. A sit down meal requires you to work out a seating plan, but guests often find their own places with a buffet. Itemise any special requirements that you or your guests may have, such as vegetarian, vegan or kosher diets, then take your specifications to a number of suppliers and compare menus and quotes. You may be offered the opportunity to taste a selection of dishes, which will give you an idea of the quality available. If you’ve opted for a buffet, don’t forget to err on the side of generosity to make sure there’s plenty for everyone. Don’t forget that an experienced caterer can also give you ideas with your reception budget and help you with the seating plan so the ‘traffic’ moves smoothly in the venue you have chosen. You should start interviewing caterers 7-12 months in advance of your wedding. Your wedding will not be complete without
CATERING will account for a big slice of your budget so careful planning is essential.
the cake! The number of guests will help determine the size of cake required, although you may have already made up your mind exactly what you want. You may want a traditional tiered cake with flowers to match your bouquet or you may have a particular passion for something that can be created, whatever, a good cake designer can be very artistic and should listen to your individual requirements. Ask to see photographs of the cakes they have designed, so you can check out the quality, their creativity and get ideas. Do remember that the cake should have a table of its own so that people and the photographer can get a good view of you cutting the cake. In providing your own drinks check whether the reception venue charges corkage and if you have to hire glasses.
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
The Dress... THIS is one aspect of the wedding planning that should be sheer pleasure. If you have no idea what you want, look at every picture you can find in wedding magazines, newspapers and on the internet. Then decide on your budget and whether you are going to buy a dress (new or second hand), hire one or have one made for you. If you decide to buy, shop well in advance of your wedding day and you may be able to pick up an end of season bargain. Try on a number of different styles to find out which shapes and colours suit you. Pass on information to the bridal wear experts like the formality of the venue, the time of year that you’re getting married and pet hates like coloured embroidery. Perhaps you’d like a detachable train or a crease resistant fabric?
When you try on dresses consider your lingerie and shoes. Wear them to your fittings, as dramatic lingerie like a basque will change your body shape considerably.Take your wedding shoes to get the dress length right. Enjoy yourself and take an honest friend with you.
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
Setting the tone... A stylish invitation card can set the tone perfectly for your dream wedding, but as there are many different types of invitations and stationery available, choosing can become quite an arduous task. More and more department stores and stationery shops now offer a service where your cards can be specially designed.
proof copy before the rest are printed. You should check: the spelling, date, names and addresses and punctuation.
A good quality cream or white card is the usual trend for a formal wedding and if you have a computer and a flair for design you could create your own.
Some of the stationery you may consider are:
It is very important that if you are having the invitations printed by a company you see a
Invitations and envelopes, RSVP cards, save the date cards, service sheets, napkins, cake boxes, menu cards, place cards and thank you cards.
“Your table decorations can consist of flowers, balloons, streamers, rollers, candles... or, in fact, whatever you want them to be, to reflect your personality� An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
The Reception Venue... IF you’re getting married in a venue licensed for weddings, then the ceremony and reception could be held at the same location - problem solved.
“The ceremony and reception could be held at the same location”
However, if you’re tying the knot in a church or registry office, ideally you’ll need to find somewhere reasonably close by. If you’re looking to save money, consider a place where you can bring in your own caterers and drink. Thorough research is the key to success, so ask around for personal recommendations, look in books and magazines, scour wedding websites to get ideas for your own individual taste. Ring around for quotations, compare rates and visit a number of the places that appeal. Finally, don’t forget to book early.
disappointment. Most receptions begin with an aperitif either champagne, sherry, or fruit for the non-drinkers A formal wedding has a ‘line up’,usually the bride’s parents, the bridegroom’s parents, the bride and groom, bridesmaids, ushers and the best man to greet their guests. A traditional table plan for your reception would normally be as follows: • Chief Bridesmaid • Groom’s Father § Bride’s Mother • Groom • Bride § Bride’s Father • Groom’s Mother • Best Man Table decorations can consist of flowers, balloons, streamers, ribbons, candles etc. Try and colour co-ordinate your tables for added flair. One very nice idea is to have disposable cameras for your guests, so they can capture that special moment.
When you have decided on the type of wedding you would like, one very important factor is what type of reception to have. Some choose the hotel function room, others choose a marquee, some decide to rent the local village hall. Whichever you decide, take into account your budget, the number of guests, location (not too far from the ceremony), informal or formal, sit down or buffet. Book well in advance to avoid
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
Capturing your day So you’ve decided to commit to each other until death do you part and have announced the news to family and friends? All that’s left is making the whole thing legal and celebrating in style. Don’t be persuaded that Uncle John can film your video for you, you could be very disappointed, and later wish that you had selected a qualified and well established Videographer, who uses expensive equipment to obtain the sound and picture quality that you have grown accustomed to when you watch television. Be clear about the pricing structure, promotional videos may be impressive to watch, but you may find that you will be charged extra for these ‘special effects and highlight sequences’. Some Videographers will include these in the price quoted.
Wedding videos
Time and time again, Brides and Grooms have said, “Oh I wish I’d had our wedding filmed, I can hardly remember all that happened on the day”. Videos and DVDs make ideal gifts to friends and family, and capture the memories of that very special day in your life,which can be viewed for generations to come. With the photographers, it is best to ask around and find out who people recommend locally. Then decide upon the style you want. You can have a formal look or some candid snapshots. Some people even opt to have a disposable camera on each guests table and then get them to hand them in for development at the end of the day. It is best to visit some photographers and look through their previous wedding sets.
“Photographs and a video can be invaluable reminders of your big day, so they need to be as perfect as possible.”
As soon as you find someone you feel comfortable with, spend some time with them, and provide them with all the help you can - from the timetable of events to the guests names. If your budget is tight you could ask a skillful friend to lend a hand, but discuss it first to avoid disappointment.
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
Transport It is a good idea to bear in mind the distance to the venue from your home when deciding which form of transport to use. THERE’S nothing quite like stepping out of a gleaming Rolls Royce or Bentley to create an impression on your arrival at church, but a vintage car or horse carriage will also create a stir. It’s usual to have two cars - one for you and your father and one for your mum and bridesmaids but one may be enough for a smaller wedding. Book early especially if you are getting hitched in the summer months. If you are having your wedding and reception at the same venue you may not need cars at all - one area where savings can be made. Remember it is the best man’s responsibility for getting himself and the groom to the ceremony on time and is probably, together with looking after the rings, his most important duty.
Music The evening reception is a great way of finalising your wedding day/ All the guests by now have had a great day, lots to eat, a bit to drink and everyone is in good spirits, so to continue the day there’s nothing better than a good old knees up. The subject of ‘the first dance’ for the happy couple at the evening party often sparks off conversations between friends and family.
They should arrive approximately half an hour before the bride and bridesmaids. They would normally arrive in the best man’s car, the groom’s own car or by taxi.
The song chosen is normally one of importance to the bride and groom, maybe it was a song in the charts the month you met, or maybe just one you both like.
Unless you are having a Civil Ceremony and are marrying in the same place as your reception, you will need your transport to take you both to the reception and a second vehicle for your bridesmaids.
Make sure the DJ or band you book are aware of your chosen song, don’t presume they will have it.
It is not uncommon for the bride’s mother/parents to accompany the bridesmaids.
Tell them it is to be the first dance and then some idea of what type of music you would like for the rest of the evening. A cross section of music is advised so granny, aunty and your 4 year old nephew can all enjoy themselves. And above all have a good time.
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
Who does what?...
The BRIDE’S FATHER - escorts you down the aisle, giving you away during the ceremony and makes a speech.
The BRIDE’S MOTHER and GROOM’S PARENTS - have no official duties, but usually appreciate being called on to help. If the families don’t know each other well this is a good chance to help them become friends. THE BRIDE - Choosing your outfit and what the bridesmaids wear falls on you. Come up with some brilliant ideas, discuss them with your groom, pick the jobs that you’ll enjoy the most and let the trusted few do the rest. The GROOM - involve him in everything. According to tradition, he organises the legal side of the marriage, pays the fees, arranges the licence and checks all the
paperwork. The choice of best man also falls on him, as does buying the rings and the presents for the attendants as well as arranging the honeymoon. Let him tackle anything else he thinks he’ll enjoy. The BEST MAN - has a host of duties including organising the stag party, driving the groom to the ceremony venue, taking care of the wedding rings, accompanying the chief bridesmaid and giving a speech during the reception. The CHIEF BRIDESMAID organises the hen party, helps you dress on the day, is in charge of any younger attendants and holds the bouquet during the ceremony. The USHERS - you’ll need as many of these as your venue demands.
An essential guide to your wedding
Everything’s fixed but are you really happy with it all? Your wedding’s booked and everything is in place, now is the time to think of you. Are you happy with your weight? Would that gorgeous dress look better with slight weight loss? Crash diets simply do not work! Eating healthily, exercise and relaxation will help you look and feel better. Pamper yourself with facemasks, foot scrubs, essential oils, etc. Have you ever thought of a fake tan, many beauty salons offer various tanning techniques? While you’re there why not treat yourself to a pedicure or facial. With your hands on show, those unsightly chipped or broken nails need to be at their best, so a manicure, nail tips or nail art are an option. Plan your makeup bearing in mind neutral colours work best. If you are not confident with your own makeup techniques, speak to a professional beautician.
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
Making the day go well... Nearly all weddings have an evening party/ reception but these days many couples are including fireworks for added effect. Fireworks, balloons and great music all add up to an excellent day, and as a small gesture why not ring your local radio station and ask for a dedication for your beloved or loved ones.
Children... THE question of whether to invite children is always difficult. It is easy to have either all or nothing, as it’s awkward to explain that relatives are allowed, but not the offspring of friends. Most people will understand if you want your wedding to be child free, just make it clear from the start and stick, politely to your guns.
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
Honeymoon There are many Honeymoon packages available whether you prefer an English castle, a Caribbean island or a trek through the Amazon, your travel agent will have many deals available.
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Independent travel agents have good access to all of the major tour operators as well as some smaller specialised operators.
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Last minute bargains are great but do you really need the hassle of searching, you could also end up being very disappointed.
Ask your tour operator if your room has a romantic view, overlooking a lake, the sea etc.,it can make your honeymoon one to remember.
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Make sure when booking, your travel agent informs the hotel that you are newlyweds, you never know what extras you might get, most hotels will offer complimentary flowers, champagne or even a freecandlelit dinner.
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Your wedding day can be very tiring, plan your honeymoon for possibly the next day.
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Decide on what your ideal honeymoon would be, is it worth paying the extra
for a four poster bed or would you prefer interesting excursions?
An essential guide to your wedding
Wedding Gift List Name of Guest:.......................................
Name of Guest:.......................................
Gift:...........................................................
Gift:...........................................................
Thank You Sent:
Thank You Sent:
Name of Guest:.......................................
Name of Guest:.......................................
Gift:...........................................................
Gift:...........................................................
Thank You Sent:
Thank You Sent:
Name of Guest:.......................................
Name of Guest:.......................................
Gift:...........................................................
Gift:...........................................................
Thank You Sent: o
Thank You Sent: o
Name of Guest:.......................................
Name of Guest:.......................................
Gift:...........................................................
Gift:...........................................................
Thank You Sent:
Thank You Sent:
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
Wedding Gift List Name of Guest:.......................................
Name of Guest:.......................................
Gift:...........................................................
Gift:...........................................................
Thank You Sent:
Thank You Sent:
Name of Guest:.......................................
Name of Guest:.......................................
Gift:...........................................................
Gift:...........................................................
Thank You Sent:
Thank You Sent:
Name of Guest:.......................................
Name of Guest:.......................................
Gift:...........................................................
Gift:...........................................................
Thank You Sent: o
Thank You Sent: o
Name of Guest:.......................................
Name of Guest:.......................................
Gift:...........................................................
Gift:...........................................................
Thank You Sent:
Thank You Sent:
An essential guide to your wedding
Checklist... A year in advance
Decide on preferred place, date and time. Set a budget and decide who’s doing what. Draw up guest list Look for a wedding dress or outfit. Order wedding stationery. Make bookings with reception venue. Book photographer. Book florist. Order wedding cake. Book transport for wedding day and going away car. Book musicians and/or disco. Organise insurance. Check both passports are still valid. Plan and book honeymoon. Contact registrar or vicar and note dates for reading of banns or giving notice.
A week to go: Confirm essential arrangements for the florist, photographer, videographer, cars, reception and cake. Hold hen party and stag night. Confirm final number of guests with caterer. Check seating plan and amend according to any late acceptance or withdrawals. Time the journey to the ceremony location so you know when you need to leave home. Put fees for minister, organist in marked envelopes and give them to best man. Arrange for someone to look after bride’s dress and accessorise after the wedding. Check travel tickets for honeymoon.
The day before:
Three months to go: Post invitations Buy wedding shoes and underwear, before your first dress fitting. Have first dress fitting. Arrange order of service, pick hymns and write vows. Choose your rings. Have any vaccinations needed for honeymoon.
Prepare your outfit. Pack honeymoon clothes and arrange for them to be taken to reception venue. If you are using your own car to get to the airport or your honeymoon destination, then check that it’s in good working order. AND DON’T FORGET: Double check everything!
A month before: Check fit of outfits. Prepare a newspaper announcement. Confirm date of wedding rehearsal. Draw up seating plan, allowing flexibility for cancellations or last minute additions. Chose presents for attendants and both mothers. Check that any guests who have failed to reply have received their invitations. Order travellers’ cheques or foreign currency for the honeymoon.
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding
wedding guide 2014
An essential guide to your wedding