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
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