Hello brides-to-be and you other lovely people. I am pleased to say that I have FINALLY said yes to my dress!
The process of finding your dream wedding dress is so unique and individual to everyone, and no two journeys will be the same. Some women know exactly what they are looking for, they find it, try it on, and it's perfect for them. My process has been much tricker right from the beginning, from when I was simply trying to find an image online of a dress that I loved, or could imagine myself wearing.
The process of finding your dream wedding dress is so unique and individual to everyone, and no two journeys will be the same. Some women know exactly what they are looking for, they find it, try it on, and it's perfect for them. My process has been much tricker right from the beginning, from when I was simply trying to find an image online of a dress that I loved, or could imagine myself wearing.
I've seen so many pictures of women looking beautiful in a range of shapes and sizes of wedding dress, but when I actually had to imagine myself wearing one, I couldn't, and that's when I stopped looking, and ultimately put off the process of looking for a dress until it was almost too late. I had decided that I didn't really like wedding dresses, and became very particular about what I wanted. Imagine the horror on the faces of the assistants in bridal boutiques when I told them 'I don't really like wedding dresses' that I 'did not want satin, diamantes, netting or anything too big and puffy' as a result of my research. I was greeted with a particularly horrific reception (looked like she'd been hit in the dace' when I told one boutique that I did not want any of the above elements on my wedding dress, which can be very off-putting for someone who is clearly quite nervous about trying them on. I guess this fear developed from my worry about the combination of my my short height, and my non-perfect figure.
I visited three boutiques in total: one in Bury St Edmonds, one in Norwich, and one in Colchester. During my first experience, I walked up the stairs to the bridal room, and after one swift look around, I promptly asked my mum if we could leave. I was surrounded by puffy, frilly dresses, and I was really quite mortified, and not quite how I imagined my first fitting to be. But by this stage, I had developed quite a fear of wedding dresses, and my mum insisted that I stay, and faced my fear of actually trying a dress on. And I did try a dress on, and I didn't mind it - I didn't love it - but I finally saw aspects of how a wedding dress could suit me. Trying on a dress for the first time certainly helped me alleviate some of the unjustified fear that I had developed.
I then ventured to Pure Brides in Norwich, where I found several dresses that I decided to try on - no frills and no fuss - perfect for me. I whittled it down to three dresses, and booked in for a second appointment. However, after continuing to look online, I ended up paying for a sample dress to be sent to a store in Colchester (as they did not stock the particular dress), thinking this was the absolute one, just because I loved how it looked in a picture. But when it arrived to the store 3 weeks later, it was horrible, and I ended up calling back to Pure Brides for a second fitting, in the dress that I couldn't stop thinking about, and that was the dress that I finally said yes to. I have no regrets about spending money on trying the sample dress on, as I would always be wondering what could have been.
I'm not claiming to be any sort of expert, but I've put together a few of my top tips for finding your dream dress from my personal experience.
Has your process of trying on dresses been as tricky? I love hearing from you!
I then ventured to Pure Brides in Norwich, where I found several dresses that I decided to try on - no frills and no fuss - perfect for me. I whittled it down to three dresses, and booked in for a second appointment. However, after continuing to look online, I ended up paying for a sample dress to be sent to a store in Colchester (as they did not stock the particular dress), thinking this was the absolute one, just because I loved how it looked in a picture. But when it arrived to the store 3 weeks later, it was horrible, and I ended up calling back to Pure Brides for a second fitting, in the dress that I couldn't stop thinking about, and that was the dress that I finally said yes to. I have no regrets about spending money on trying the sample dress on, as I would always be wondering what could have been.
1. Look around online first for ideas of the style, textures, colours and looks that you like. However, at the same time, don't get your heart set on a certain style/shape, because it might not necessarily suit you.
2. Start looking for a dress as soon as you can - dresses can take up to 6 months to arrive, with a further 3 or so months needed for alterations.
3. You will know when you've found the one - you feel confident and attractive, and you won't be able to get it off your mind.
Has your process of trying on dresses been as tricky? I love hearing from you!
Love Kelly x
I Said Yes to my Dress: finding your dream wedding dress
Hello brides-to-be and you other lovely people. I am pleased to say that I have FINALLY said yes to my dress!
The process of finding your dream wedding dress is so unique and individual to everyone, and no two journeys will be the same. Some women know exactly what they are looking for, they find it, try it on, and it's perfect for them. My process has been much tricker right from the beginning, from when I was simply trying to find an image online of a dress that I loved, or could imagine myself wearing.
The process of finding your dream wedding dress is so unique and individual to everyone, and no two journeys will be the same. Some women know exactly what they are looking for, they find it, try it on, and it's perfect for them. My process has been much tricker right from the beginning, from when I was simply trying to find an image online of a dress that I loved, or could imagine myself wearing.
I've seen so many pictures of women looking beautiful in a range of shapes and sizes of wedding dress, but when I actually had to imagine myself wearing one, I couldn't, and that's when I stopped looking, and ultimately put off the process of looking for a dress until it was almost too late. I had decided that I didn't really like wedding dresses, and became very particular about what I wanted. Imagine the horror on the faces of the assistants in bridal boutiques when I told them 'I don't really like wedding dresses' that I 'did not want satin, diamantes, netting or anything too big and puffy' as a result of my research. I was greeted with a particularly horrific reception (looked like she'd been hit in the dace' when I told one boutique that I did not want any of the above elements on my wedding dress, which can be very off-putting for someone who is clearly quite nervous about trying them on. I guess this fear developed from my worry about the combination of my my short height, and my non-perfect figure.
I visited three boutiques in total: one in Bury St Edmonds, one in Norwich, and one in Colchester. During my first experience, I walked up the stairs to the bridal room, and after one swift look around, I promptly asked my mum if we could leave. I was surrounded by puffy, frilly dresses, and I was really quite mortified, and not quite how I imagined my first fitting to be. But by this stage, I had developed quite a fear of wedding dresses, and my mum insisted that I stay, and faced my fear of actually trying a dress on. And I did try a dress on, and I didn't mind it - I didn't love it - but I finally saw aspects of how a wedding dress could suit me. Trying on a dress for the first time certainly helped me alleviate some of the unjustified fear that I had developed.
I then ventured to Pure Brides in Norwich, where I found several dresses that I decided to try on - no frills and no fuss - perfect for me. I whittled it down to three dresses, and booked in for a second appointment. However, after continuing to look online, I ended up paying for a sample dress to be sent to a store in Colchester (as they did not stock the particular dress), thinking this was the absolute one, just because I loved how it looked in a picture. But when it arrived to the store 3 weeks later, it was horrible, and I ended up calling back to Pure Brides for a second fitting, in the dress that I couldn't stop thinking about, and that was the dress that I finally said yes to. I have no regrets about spending money on trying the sample dress on, as I would always be wondering what could have been.
I'm not claiming to be any sort of expert, but I've put together a few of my top tips for finding your dream dress from my personal experience.
Has your process of trying on dresses been as tricky? I love hearing from you!
I then ventured to Pure Brides in Norwich, where I found several dresses that I decided to try on - no frills and no fuss - perfect for me. I whittled it down to three dresses, and booked in for a second appointment. However, after continuing to look online, I ended up paying for a sample dress to be sent to a store in Colchester (as they did not stock the particular dress), thinking this was the absolute one, just because I loved how it looked in a picture. But when it arrived to the store 3 weeks later, it was horrible, and I ended up calling back to Pure Brides for a second fitting, in the dress that I couldn't stop thinking about, and that was the dress that I finally said yes to. I have no regrets about spending money on trying the sample dress on, as I would always be wondering what could have been.
1. Look around online first for ideas of the style, textures, colours and looks that you like. However, at the same time, don't get your heart set on a certain style/shape, because it might not necessarily suit you.
2. Start looking for a dress as soon as you can - dresses can take up to 6 months to arrive, with a further 3 or so months needed for alterations.
3. You will know when you've found the one - you feel confident and attractive, and you won't be able to get it off your mind.
Has your process of trying on dresses been as tricky? I love hearing from you!
Love Kelly x
The wedding breakfast is undoubtably one of the most important parts of the wedding day. It is ultimately a celebration of marriage, family and friends, and of course, your first meal as a married couple.
We're having our wedding breakfast in a 'Long Room', where we're going to have long tables rather than rounds. Having worked closely with weddings in the past, I got a little sick of the way round tables look, and like the idea of everyone being around a longer table, together.
Within this type of setting, the table decoration is almost more integral than the actual decoration around the room, especially when you're trying to create the perfect setting for a country style, rustic-themed, wedding breakfast. Green foliage is ideal for creating a simplistic, rustic look, and is perfect for lining long tables rather than rounds. Why not opt for a hessian table runner, which will contrast perfectly with green foliage, and pop a stem of rosemary on your guest's white napkin, and tie together with a piece of hessian string. If you're creative with the way that you display your guest's names, this will only add to the decor. Add some candles along the table, and you've created a picture-perfect table setting, that decorates the room without you having to.
How will you be decorating your wedding breakfast?
Love Kelly x
Images sourced from Pinterest.
Rustic Wedding Breakfast Inspiration: Mood Board
The wedding breakfast is undoubtably one of the most important parts of the wedding day. It is ultimately a celebration of marriage, family and friends, and of course, your first meal as a married couple.
We're having our wedding breakfast in a 'Long Room', where we're going to have long tables rather than rounds. Having worked closely with weddings in the past, I got a little sick of the way round tables look, and like the idea of everyone being around a longer table, together.
Within this type of setting, the table decoration is almost more integral than the actual decoration around the room, especially when you're trying to create the perfect setting for a country style, rustic-themed, wedding breakfast. Green foliage is ideal for creating a simplistic, rustic look, and is perfect for lining long tables rather than rounds. Why not opt for a hessian table runner, which will contrast perfectly with green foliage, and pop a stem of rosemary on your guest's white napkin, and tie together with a piece of hessian string. If you're creative with the way that you display your guest's names, this will only add to the decor. Add some candles along the table, and you've created a picture-perfect table setting, that decorates the room without you having to.
How will you be decorating your wedding breakfast?
Love Kelly x
Images sourced from Pinterest.
Hello, and welcome to the first of my DIY wedding posts. When it comes to wedding planning, doing what you can, yourself, is going to be super important for saving money, and cutting particular costs down to a minimum.
Wedding invites & stationary require a lot of budget (yes, those £1.20 (at least) Save the Dates soon add up). If you think you've got to budget for a save the date per person, and an invite person, that's without order of service, RSVPs, envelopes, menus, information sheets & thank you cards, these soon mount up and you can be facing a bill that is well in excess of five, six or seven hundred pounds, depending on the number of guests. There was just no way that I could justify this amount of money on simply asking friends and family to come to our wedding.
We're lucky - Josh is a designer and is incredibly talented on photoshop, and so we decided that we were going to design our own, personalised invite. I can tell you now, this wasn't easy - there are so many designs to choose from, and you really have to have a clear idea of what you want the theme of your whole wedding to be, and that is a pretty big commitment to make. But stick at it, look through Pinterest, and at invites online, pick your theme, and stick with it, and you'll eventually get a design that you love. Online research is also super useful when it comes to what wording you want to include on your invites.
We stuck a sample of our design on our fridge for two weeks, and after that, we still loved it, so we knew it was the one!
Alternatively if you aren't so great on photoshop, there are a couple of alternatives for DIY invites:
1. Buy a template from Etsy, and print yourself
This is a great, and relatively cheap option for your wedding invitations and other wedding stationary. You'll simply purchase a template for a small fee, around £15.00, and you'll receive a digital copy that you'll be able to download, save, and print as many times as you want - ideal for those on a budget, who have a lot of guests.
2. Ask someone to help you
Weddings are a celebration of love, and family, so why not ask a photoshop-savvy family member, or friend to help you design the invite.
Did you design your own invites? I'd love to hear from you!
Kelly x
DIY: Wedding Invitations
Hello, and welcome to the first of my DIY wedding posts. When it comes to wedding planning, doing what you can, yourself, is going to be super important for saving money, and cutting particular costs down to a minimum.
Wedding invites & stationary require a lot of budget (yes, those £1.20 (at least) Save the Dates soon add up). If you think you've got to budget for a save the date per person, and an invite person, that's without order of service, RSVPs, envelopes, menus, information sheets & thank you cards, these soon mount up and you can be facing a bill that is well in excess of five, six or seven hundred pounds, depending on the number of guests. There was just no way that I could justify this amount of money on simply asking friends and family to come to our wedding.
We're lucky - Josh is a designer and is incredibly talented on photoshop, and so we decided that we were going to design our own, personalised invite. I can tell you now, this wasn't easy - there are so many designs to choose from, and you really have to have a clear idea of what you want the theme of your whole wedding to be, and that is a pretty big commitment to make. But stick at it, look through Pinterest, and at invites online, pick your theme, and stick with it, and you'll eventually get a design that you love. Online research is also super useful when it comes to what wording you want to include on your invites.
We stuck a sample of our design on our fridge for two weeks, and after that, we still loved it, so we knew it was the one!
Alternatively if you aren't so great on photoshop, there are a couple of alternatives for DIY invites:
1. Buy a template from Etsy, and print yourself
This is a great, and relatively cheap option for your wedding invitations and other wedding stationary. You'll simply purchase a template for a small fee, around £15.00, and you'll receive a digital copy that you'll be able to download, save, and print as many times as you want - ideal for those on a budget, who have a lot of guests.
2. Ask someone to help you
Weddings are a celebration of love, and family, so why not ask a photoshop-savvy family member, or friend to help you design the invite.
Did you design your own invites? I'd love to hear from you!
Kelly x
For me, this is a really tricky question to answer. Without a doubt, Santorini is one of the most beautiful islands that I have ever visited, and I would return there at the click of a finger. But would I want to take my honeymoon there? I don't really know if I would.
We visited Santorini at the end of June, crossing over into the beginning of July - so one of the most popular wedding & honeymoon times. But as you can imagine, this is also one of the busiest, and most crowded times to visit Santorini - and by crowded, I really mean crowded.
The ideal honeymoon location n Santorini is of course the beautiful town of Oia, in a hotel with a private balcony that overlooks the sea and has the perfect view of the sunset, however your experience certainly might not be a private one. Hundreds, maybe thousands of tourists crowd over the cratered edge of Oia to watch the sunset. We saw people climbing on to hotel roofs, obliterating romantic moments, and removing any form of privacy that you think may comes with these highly expensive apartments and hotels. We even spotted a bride struggling to get through the crowds to have her photos taken. Whilst we didn't stay in Oia - the picture perfect location, we stayed by the beach in Kamari which was a little quieter than Oia, but has no sunset views due to it being in the other side of the Island - so if you were after privacy, maybe think about the south of the island.
Santorini will remain one of the most beautiful places I have ever been, but for me would not be a choice of honeymoon destination.
Love Kelly x
Is Santorini the honeymoon destination for you?
For me, this is a really tricky question to answer. Without a doubt, Santorini is one of the most beautiful islands that I have ever visited, and I would return there at the click of a finger. But would I want to take my honeymoon there? I don't really know if I would.
We visited Santorini at the end of June, crossing over into the beginning of July - so one of the most popular wedding & honeymoon times. But as you can imagine, this is also one of the busiest, and most crowded times to visit Santorini - and by crowded, I really mean crowded.
The ideal honeymoon location n Santorini is of course the beautiful town of Oia, in a hotel with a private balcony that overlooks the sea and has the perfect view of the sunset, however your experience certainly might not be a private one. Hundreds, maybe thousands of tourists crowd over the cratered edge of Oia to watch the sunset. We saw people climbing on to hotel roofs, obliterating romantic moments, and removing any form of privacy that you think may comes with these highly expensive apartments and hotels. We even spotted a bride struggling to get through the crowds to have her photos taken. Whilst we didn't stay in Oia - the picture perfect location, we stayed by the beach in Kamari which was a little quieter than Oia, but has no sunset views due to it being in the other side of the Island - so if you were after privacy, maybe think about the south of the island.
Santorini will remain one of the most beautiful places I have ever been, but for me would not be a choice of honeymoon destination.
Love Kelly x
If you follow me on social media, you probably noticed that a couple of weeks ago, Josh and I took a trip to the beautiful Greek island of Santorini (hello Instagram looking on point!).
Fira I guess is considered the 'capital' of Santorini, but don't get wild visions of a big city, but instead you'll be greeted by a quaint town, with beautiful cobbled streets, cute Greek shops, and probably one of the most beautiful views you'll every lay your eyes on.
Shop the post
1. V Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar
The view from V Lounge & Cocktail Bar is insane. If you're looking to watch the beautiful Santorini sunset, but avoid the crowded streets, be it in Oia or Fira, then this is the place for you. Call and make a reservation for a cosy sofa for two right at the front, order a cocktail or two, sit back and soak in the incredible view.
2. Haagen Dazs Cafe
Love desserts? Check. Love ice cream? Check. Then the Haagen Dazs Cafe is the place for you. If you sit down in the Cafe area, rather than go inside, you'll be greeted with an extensive menu of delicious, ice-cream based desserts. From brownies and ice cream, to cookie jars, macarons and crepes, there's so much deliciousness that is impossible to resist. Don't be put off by the fact that it's a commercial brand, which we think a lot of people were - the desserts are truly irresistible.
3. Cable Cars to the 'Old Port'
Personally, we didn't do this, but you can get a cable car down the steep cliff of Fira, all the way to the Old Port. I believe there's a couple of little restaurants down there, but for €5.00 each way, per person, it didn't seem worth it to us - especially when you face the prospect of waiting in a long queue to get back up.
If you're looking for relaxation, beautiful scenery, sunsets and of course, sunshine, then I would definitely recommend a trip to Santorini. Are you planning a trip to Santorini? I would love to hear from you!
Love Kelly x
Exploring Fira
If you follow me on social media, you probably noticed that a couple of weeks ago, Josh and I took a trip to the beautiful Greek island of Santorini (hello Instagram looking on point!).
Fira I guess is considered the 'capital' of Santorini, but don't get wild visions of a big city, but instead you'll be greeted by a quaint town, with beautiful cobbled streets, cute Greek shops, and probably one of the most beautiful views you'll every lay your eyes on.
Shop the post
1. V Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar
The view from V Lounge & Cocktail Bar is insane. If you're looking to watch the beautiful Santorini sunset, but avoid the crowded streets, be it in Oia or Fira, then this is the place for you. Call and make a reservation for a cosy sofa for two right at the front, order a cocktail or two, sit back and soak in the incredible view.
2. Haagen Dazs Cafe
Love desserts? Check. Love ice cream? Check. Then the Haagen Dazs Cafe is the place for you. If you sit down in the Cafe area, rather than go inside, you'll be greeted with an extensive menu of delicious, ice-cream based desserts. From brownies and ice cream, to cookie jars, macarons and crepes, there's so much deliciousness that is impossible to resist. Don't be put off by the fact that it's a commercial brand, which we think a lot of people were - the desserts are truly irresistible.
3. Cable Cars to the 'Old Port'
Personally, we didn't do this, but you can get a cable car down the steep cliff of Fira, all the way to the Old Port. I believe there's a couple of little restaurants down there, but for €5.00 each way, per person, it didn't seem worth it to us - especially when you face the prospect of waiting in a long queue to get back up.
If you're looking for relaxation, beautiful scenery, sunsets and of course, sunshine, then I would definitely recommend a trip to Santorini. Are you planning a trip to Santorini? I would love to hear from you!
Love Kelly x
So yes, Josh and I are saving for our wedding, which is now
less than a year away – but no, we’re not sacrificing the holiday that we are
both in desperate need for this summer.
No one can really explain how stressful planning a wedding can actually be, and although we have around 20 months to prepare for ours, the most stressful thing is figuring out how you’re going to please everyone, family and friends, whilst on a budget, rather than the actual booking of the venue, entertainer etc., and of course, finding that dream dress. So take a break, get away for the weekend, the night - whatever. Just spend time together, and don't lose sight of the value and importance of why you are getting married.
Shop the post
Love, Kelly x
The Importance of getting away from it all
So yes, Josh and I are saving for our wedding, which is now
less than a year away – but no, we’re not sacrificing the holiday that we are
both in desperate need for this summer.
No one can really explain how stressful planning a wedding can actually be, and although we have around 20 months to prepare for ours, the most stressful thing is figuring out how you’re going to please everyone, family and friends, whilst on a budget, rather than the actual booking of the venue, entertainer etc., and of course, finding that dream dress. So take a break, get away for the weekend, the night - whatever. Just spend time together, and don't lose sight of the value and importance of why you are getting married.
Shop the post
Love, Kelly x
I know that it's been a while...time seems to just slip away when trying to balance a full-time job, wedding planning and blogging, along with sleep and the other stresses of daily life. But I couldn't not write a post today, especially as I have the day off work.
It is one year until my big day...this time next year I'll be a married woman - I really can't believe how quickly time is moving, and how quick time has passed since I got engaged 9 whole months ago.
Now, as I was pretty keen on the wedding planning I have much sorted out most of the key elements already - the venue, the ceremony, my lovely talented florist, performer/DJ, photographer & prop hire to be exact. But, maybe you've been a little more slack! However, it's completely possible to plan a wedding in a year, as long as you're completely on the ball and fully focused - so I've put together a little checklist for the 12-6 months before the big day.
12 months to go
This is really the last point to make the all important decisions - what is it that you want from the wedding? Something small, or something big? Where are you going to get married - when? Do you want a theme - if so is this theme going to be integrated in all parts of the day, including the time of year, and the venue? You really need to try to agree on as many things as possible at this point.
11 months to go
At this stage you really need to find your venue, and set the date. Typically venues can get booked up much more than a year in advance, so it's really important to finalise. And what's more, you can get a feel for the venue at the time of year that you'll be getting married - is it breezy? Too warm, or too cold? Don't settle with your venue either - go with your gut and you're bound to enjoy your day a million times more than if you settled for somewhere you weren't completely happy with.
10 months to go
So to the scary part - it's time to get shopping and find your dream dress. This may take a little longer than expected, so allow plenty of time, set aside weekends, and be prepared to travel if you live in a quiet, and more remote area. Made-to-measure dresses tend to need to be ordered 6 months in advance to avoid any unnecessary additional costs.
9 months to go
Now is the time for something that no one really enjoys tackling - the wedding list. Who is coming to the day, who is coming in the evening - who isn't coming?? Unfortunately at this stage you have to be selfish. If you don't see someone from one year to the next, can you really justify inviting them to your £40 per head three-course sit down meal? And your cousins, boyfriend's aunt and children? cut!
8 months to go
Now is the time to gather your thoughts on photographers, caterers (if they're not included within the wedding), think about florists, musicians or a DJ. Now's the perfect time to also order your wedding stationary - including invites, menus, place cards, order of service and even thank you cards.
7 months to go
Plan & book your honeymoon at this stage. I'm sure you've got a pretty good idea what it is that you're looking for from a honeymoon by now - whether its near, afar, luxury or something a little less, now is the time to book. Typically travel agents release the hotels approximately 9-10 months before travel - believe me I've tried to get ahead of myself and had no luck. Don't be afraid to try and go for extras, discounts, or specials for newlyweds! Consider whether you need to update the name on your passport if you're planning a trip abroad.
You can also gather your bridesmaids and choose their dresses at this stage, as well as the groom, ushers and best man (yes we can't forget about them).
6 months to go
If you're planning to get fit for the wedding, I would recommend the whole year to get yourself prepared. For me it's more about adopting a lifestyle change, and have been integrating healthy food choices, as well as exercise into my daily routine for the last couple of months now. But six months before the wedding is the perfect time to up the antics.
Make sure you're completely happy with the bridesmaids dresses - even if you have to make them try them on several times. Send out your save the dates (this can be done earlier if you desire), make sure you've chosen your florist, sampled the catering & chosen a menu, ordered the cake, groom's suit & finally sorted your gift list for the guests.
If you're planning to begin to use the make-up or lotions that your make up artist has recommended, or is planning to use on the big day, now it the time to start these, and any other beauty regimes you have planned.
I hope this offers a little insight to someone who may need it, or anyone who is just curious, and i'll be back with a 6 months to go post soon!
Love Kelly x
One year to go
I know that it's been a while...time seems to just slip away when trying to balance a full-time job, wedding planning and blogging, along with sleep and the other stresses of daily life. But I couldn't not write a post today, especially as I have the day off work.
It is one year until my big day...this time next year I'll be a married woman - I really can't believe how quickly time is moving, and how quick time has passed since I got engaged 9 whole months ago.
Now, as I was pretty keen on the wedding planning I have much sorted out most of the key elements already - the venue, the ceremony, my lovely talented florist, performer/DJ, photographer & prop hire to be exact. But, maybe you've been a little more slack! However, it's completely possible to plan a wedding in a year, as long as you're completely on the ball and fully focused - so I've put together a little checklist for the 12-6 months before the big day.
12 months to go
This is really the last point to make the all important decisions - what is it that you want from the wedding? Something small, or something big? Where are you going to get married - when? Do you want a theme - if so is this theme going to be integrated in all parts of the day, including the time of year, and the venue? You really need to try to agree on as many things as possible at this point.
11 months to go
At this stage you really need to find your venue, and set the date. Typically venues can get booked up much more than a year in advance, so it's really important to finalise. And what's more, you can get a feel for the venue at the time of year that you'll be getting married - is it breezy? Too warm, or too cold? Don't settle with your venue either - go with your gut and you're bound to enjoy your day a million times more than if you settled for somewhere you weren't completely happy with.
10 months to go
So to the scary part - it's time to get shopping and find your dream dress. This may take a little longer than expected, so allow plenty of time, set aside weekends, and be prepared to travel if you live in a quiet, and more remote area. Made-to-measure dresses tend to need to be ordered 6 months in advance to avoid any unnecessary additional costs.
9 months to go
Now is the time for something that no one really enjoys tackling - the wedding list. Who is coming to the day, who is coming in the evening - who isn't coming?? Unfortunately at this stage you have to be selfish. If you don't see someone from one year to the next, can you really justify inviting them to your £40 per head three-course sit down meal? And your cousins, boyfriend's aunt and children? cut!
8 months to go
Now is the time to gather your thoughts on photographers, caterers (if they're not included within the wedding), think about florists, musicians or a DJ. Now's the perfect time to also order your wedding stationary - including invites, menus, place cards, order of service and even thank you cards.
7 months to go
Plan & book your honeymoon at this stage. I'm sure you've got a pretty good idea what it is that you're looking for from a honeymoon by now - whether its near, afar, luxury or something a little less, now is the time to book. Typically travel agents release the hotels approximately 9-10 months before travel - believe me I've tried to get ahead of myself and had no luck. Don't be afraid to try and go for extras, discounts, or specials for newlyweds! Consider whether you need to update the name on your passport if you're planning a trip abroad.
You can also gather your bridesmaids and choose their dresses at this stage, as well as the groom, ushers and best man (yes we can't forget about them).
6 months to go
If you're planning to get fit for the wedding, I would recommend the whole year to get yourself prepared. For me it's more about adopting a lifestyle change, and have been integrating healthy food choices, as well as exercise into my daily routine for the last couple of months now. But six months before the wedding is the perfect time to up the antics.
Make sure you're completely happy with the bridesmaids dresses - even if you have to make them try them on several times. Send out your save the dates (this can be done earlier if you desire), make sure you've chosen your florist, sampled the catering & chosen a menu, ordered the cake, groom's suit & finally sorted your gift list for the guests.
If you're planning to begin to use the make-up or lotions that your make up artist has recommended, or is planning to use on the big day, now it the time to start these, and any other beauty regimes you have planned.
I hope this offers a little insight to someone who may need it, or anyone who is just curious, and i'll be back with a 6 months to go post soon!
Love Kelly x
Planning your wedding is going to be stressful. Fact. But you don't have to let the stressful planning process have an impact on your day, and don't let it take away from the fun that should be injected into your wedding. I don't necessarily mean fun as in having comedians, magicians, etc. - unless that's what you want for your day - but simple fun things, that do not have to cost the world.
Of course, you want your day to be taken seriously, but that does not mean that you can't have fun things for you and your guests to enjoy, because it's these things that will only add to the memories when looking back at your day.
1. Polaroid Camera/Photo Guestbook
This is a great way of creating great memories of your big day. Not only can your guests leave you a message, but also a photo of themselves enjoying your big day. Alternatively, if you have hired a Photo Booth, why not ask your guests to leave a strip of photos in your guest book.
This is a great way of creating great memories of your big day. Not only can your guests leave you a message, but also a photo of themselves enjoying your big day. Alternatively, if you have hired a Photo Booth, why not ask your guests to leave a strip of photos in your guest book.
2. Lawn Games
Lawn games are perfect for the spring and summer wedding, for the Bride & Groom who want to take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting of their reception venue, and getting the guests from the bride and groom's family outdoors and mingling. You can hire lawn games such as giant Jenga and croquet if you don't want to buy them just for the day.
3. Children's Table
If you have children attending your whole wedding day - that's a long time for them to get bored, and cause mischief! So the best thing to do for everyone's sake is provide them with a little entertainment. If you have many children's attending, then a children's table is a great option, and if there's just a few, a small kid's pack is a great alternative for keeping them entertained!
4. Sparklers
End your night with a sparkle, and gift your guests with a sparkler each - they make for great photos, and are perfect for injecting a final bit of fun for your guests.
End your night with a sparkle, and gift your guests with a sparkler each - they make for great photos, and are perfect for injecting a final bit of fun for your guests.
5. Outdoor Photo Booth
This is a great alternative for hiring an expensive photo booth for the day. If you're wedding is in the summer months, why not create a little outdoor area where guests can take photos. Ask your photographers to take pictures in this area.
This is a great alternative for hiring an expensive photo booth for the day. If you're wedding is in the summer months, why not create a little outdoor area where guests can take photos. Ask your photographers to take pictures in this area.
6. Advice Cards
These are bound to provide a little entertainment for your guests during the wedding (we can all imagine heads together, thinking of the funniest things they can advise you), then for you and your groom reading them over after the wedding.
These are bound to provide a little entertainment for your guests during the wedding (we can all imagine heads together, thinking of the funniest things they can advise you), then for you and your groom reading them over after the wedding.
7. Sweet Station
And last but not least, why not provide your guests with an injection of sugar during the big day. Perfect for the little ones and adults alike, sweets will provide lasting entertainment for everyone at the wedding.
And last but not least, why not provide your guests with an injection of sugar during the big day. Perfect for the little ones and adults alike, sweets will provide lasting entertainment for everyone at the wedding.
How are you planning to inject some fun into your big day?
Lots of love,
Kelly
x
7 Fun Ideas for your Wedding Day
Planning your wedding is going to be stressful. Fact. But you don't have to let the stressful planning process have an impact on your day, and don't let it take away from the fun that should be injected into your wedding. I don't necessarily mean fun as in having comedians, magicians, etc. - unless that's what you want for your day - but simple fun things, that do not have to cost the world.
Of course, you want your day to be taken seriously, but that does not mean that you can't have fun things for you and your guests to enjoy, because it's these things that will only add to the memories when looking back at your day.
1. Polaroid Camera/Photo Guestbook
This is a great way of creating great memories of your big day. Not only can your guests leave you a message, but also a photo of themselves enjoying your big day. Alternatively, if you have hired a Photo Booth, why not ask your guests to leave a strip of photos in your guest book.
This is a great way of creating great memories of your big day. Not only can your guests leave you a message, but also a photo of themselves enjoying your big day. Alternatively, if you have hired a Photo Booth, why not ask your guests to leave a strip of photos in your guest book.
2. Lawn Games
Lawn games are perfect for the spring and summer wedding, for the Bride & Groom who want to take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting of their reception venue, and getting the guests from the bride and groom's family outdoors and mingling. You can hire lawn games such as giant Jenga and croquet if you don't want to buy them just for the day.
3. Children's Table
If you have children attending your whole wedding day - that's a long time for them to get bored, and cause mischief! So the best thing to do for everyone's sake is provide them with a little entertainment. If you have many children's attending, then a children's table is a great option, and if there's just a few, a small kid's pack is a great alternative for keeping them entertained!
4. Sparklers
End your night with a sparkle, and gift your guests with a sparkler each - they make for great photos, and are perfect for injecting a final bit of fun for your guests.
End your night with a sparkle, and gift your guests with a sparkler each - they make for great photos, and are perfect for injecting a final bit of fun for your guests.
5. Outdoor Photo Booth
This is a great alternative for hiring an expensive photo booth for the day. If you're wedding is in the summer months, why not create a little outdoor area where guests can take photos. Ask your photographers to take pictures in this area.
This is a great alternative for hiring an expensive photo booth for the day. If you're wedding is in the summer months, why not create a little outdoor area where guests can take photos. Ask your photographers to take pictures in this area.
6. Advice Cards
These are bound to provide a little entertainment for your guests during the wedding (we can all imagine heads together, thinking of the funniest things they can advise you), then for you and your groom reading them over after the wedding.
These are bound to provide a little entertainment for your guests during the wedding (we can all imagine heads together, thinking of the funniest things they can advise you), then for you and your groom reading them over after the wedding.
7. Sweet Station
And last but not least, why not provide your guests with an injection of sugar during the big day. Perfect for the little ones and adults alike, sweets will provide lasting entertainment for everyone at the wedding.
And last but not least, why not provide your guests with an injection of sugar during the big day. Perfect for the little ones and adults alike, sweets will provide lasting entertainment for everyone at the wedding.
How are you planning to inject some fun into your big day?
Lots of love,
Kelly
x
I can't believe that it has been almost 6 months since I was
wandering around the beautiful city of Rome as a newly engaged girl.
I love city breaks, but I always like to be super prepared
and know exactly what it is that I want to visit before I go. Rome seemed a
little easier, because you instantly imagine yourself visiting the Colosseum
and the Roman Forum, and eating pizza whilst overlooking one of the famous
piazzas. September was a lovely time to visit, still being very warm.
When in Rome
I can't believe that it has been almost 6 months since I was
wandering around the beautiful city of Rome as a newly engaged girl.
I love city breaks, but I always like to be super prepared
and know exactly what it is that I want to visit before I go. Rome seemed a
little easier, because you instantly imagine yourself visiting the Colosseum
and the Roman Forum, and eating pizza whilst overlooking one of the famous
piazzas. September was a lovely time to visit, still being very warm.
Norfolk is one of the most perfect places to get married.
From coastal venues, to country barns & beautiful hotels, there's a
place that'll suit almost any couple. So I've decided to compose a list of some
of my favourite locations around Norfolk, and today is all about Norfolk's Halls. For me, having a wedding in the country, outside the hustle
and bustle of the city is ideal if you're looking for privacy, and beautiful
gardens.
1. Oxnead Hall
I'm biased, of course. This is my wedding venue, &
I'm absolutely in love with the place, and have been since the moment that I
saw it. What I love about the venue is the privacy that it offers, and the
whole wedding from start to finish will be very intimate. The venue has a
church on site, which you can of course get married in, or a smaller, light
& airy room, the Orangery as an alternative. You can then move in to one of the larger
rooms, the Great Barn or the Long Room for your wedding breakfast and evening
party. There are two cottages on site which can be rented out to your wedding
guests, and the main house, which includes the bridal suite & will
include a total of 8 other bedrooms next year.
*image by Luis Holden
Narborough Hall was another favourite of mine when I was looking around for a wedding venue. Set in the valley of the River Nar, you can opt to have your ceremony down in the beautiful gardens for that perfect summer, rustic vibe. You can even hop into a boat on the lake after you've exchanged vows for some cute pictures - if you dare! You then have the option for your wedding breakfast in either the barn - perfect for the rustic wedding, or a marquee in the beautiful gardens.
Find out more about having your wedding at Narborough Hall
Gardens here.
3. Holkham Hall
Holkham Hall is another beautiful venue to both marry in, and then hold your reception. The Marble Hall is perfect to hold your ceremony in, taking its inspiration from the breathtaking Pantheon in Rome. However, there are several other spaces in the grounds where you can marry, including the local church. For your reception, use one of four rooms, dependent on your party size, or a marquee in the beautiful Holkham Park, by the Temple and the lake.
Find out more about marrying in Holkham Hall here.
Kelly
x
Top Norfolk Wedding Venues: Norfolk's Halls
Norfolk is one of the most perfect places to get married.
From coastal venues, to country barns & beautiful hotels, there's a
place that'll suit almost any couple. So I've decided to compose a list of some
of my favourite locations around Norfolk, and today is all about Norfolk's Halls. For me, having a wedding in the country, outside the hustle
and bustle of the city is ideal if you're looking for privacy, and beautiful
gardens.
1. Oxnead Hall
I'm biased, of course. This is my wedding venue, &
I'm absolutely in love with the place, and have been since the moment that I
saw it. What I love about the venue is the privacy that it offers, and the
whole wedding from start to finish will be very intimate. The venue has a
church on site, which you can of course get married in, or a smaller, light
& airy room, the Orangery as an alternative. You can then move in to one of the larger
rooms, the Great Barn or the Long Room for your wedding breakfast and evening
party. There are two cottages on site which can be rented out to your wedding
guests, and the main house, which includes the bridal suite & will
include a total of 8 other bedrooms next year.
*image by Luis Holden
Narborough Hall was another favourite of mine when I was looking around for a wedding venue. Set in the valley of the River Nar, you can opt to have your ceremony down in the beautiful gardens for that perfect summer, rustic vibe. You can even hop into a boat on the lake after you've exchanged vows for some cute pictures - if you dare! You then have the option for your wedding breakfast in either the barn - perfect for the rustic wedding, or a marquee in the beautiful gardens.
Find out more about having your wedding at Narborough Hall
Gardens here.
3. Holkham Hall
Holkham Hall is another beautiful venue to both marry in, and then hold your reception. The Marble Hall is perfect to hold your ceremony in, taking its inspiration from the breathtaking Pantheon in Rome. However, there are several other spaces in the grounds where you can marry, including the local church. For your reception, use one of four rooms, dependent on your party size, or a marquee in the beautiful Holkham Park, by the Temple and the lake.
Find out more about marrying in Holkham Hall here.
Kelly
x
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
