Have you thought about whether you are going to get a gift for your other half for your wedding day?
If not, why, what were/are the reasons behind deciding not to? Have you agreed between you that you won't be getting each other gifts or has something else prevented you from getting anything?
If yes, what are you getting, and what made you decide to get each other gifts...or have you indeed discussed it with each other?
I'm not sure when the tradition of exchanging gifts started, and in my limited attempt to find out, Google didn't help hugely either. All I know is that for quite some time there is an expected element of the day where at some point the bride and groom exchange gifts with one another.
The popular choice is to purchase something sentimental and thoughtful, something that when you look at in years to come will always remind you of your special day.
In my experience I have known some very special gifts to have been exchanged not always costing the earth. A handwritten love letter, card or poem to be given directly or indirectly to the bride or groom is a thoughtful inexpensive way of expressing how you feel about the other person on what is sure to be a memorable day. However if money is no object you could always opt for an elaborate delivery of champagne / chocolates / flowers the morning of the wedding so the bride or groom can toast with their bridesmaids or ushers before leaving for the ceremony.
The bottom line is if you wanted to send a gift, it doesn't have to be expensive, just an expression of how you feel about your future husband or wife.
Here are a list of things you might want to consider:
For the Bride:
* Jewellery
* Painting, or piece of art
* Champagne, flowers, chocolate
* Keepsake box (something old, new, borrowed & blue)
* Perfume
* Champagne flutes
* Photo album
For the Groom:
* Cigar(s)
* Cufflinks
* Pocket watch
* Hip flask
* Golf clubs / membership
* Cocktail shaker
* Engraved lighter
For any other ideas, or help you might need with something unusual get in contact: info@weddingsbyelaine.co.uk
Thursday, 8 July 2010
Tuesday, 1 June 2010
when's the best time of year to get married?
I often get asked when the best time is to get married, but to be totally honest there's isn't a 'best' time. It depends what your priorities are, and if you had an ideal in mind when you've thought about your wedding.
Is the weather a key factor - if it is then you may want to consider a wedding abroad - or is it about having someplace big enough to have all your guests in one place at the same time? The thing is you could choose the middle of winter to get married where the weather is shocking and the surroundings dull, but if you have everyone you want in attendance it won't matter two hoots what it's like outside. Equally if you want the pictures to die for, the freedom to walk around some beautiful grounds then you need to not only pick the perfect time of year but the perfect location, which as we know with the British weather may indeed mean going abroad for some sort of guarantee.
Below is a very short guide on some ideas you might want to think about by month or day of the week.
By Month
January - March - Out of season so can be cheaper
April - June - Good weather (hopefully!)
June - August - Peak season, so can be expensive, but also summer holidays, so good for vocational workers where you don't have to take extra time off to get married and honeymoon
September - October - Depending on honeymoon destination, most rainy seasons have finished around now
October - November - Out of season so can be cheaper
December - Seasonal theme, where you won't have to spend too much on decoration as most venues will be decorated for Christmas & New Year festivities
Days of the week
Monday - Thursday - Very cheap as these are not the most popular days, but think of your guests and time they would need to take off from work
Friday & Sunday - Fast becoming popular choices as they are slightly cheaper
Saturday - Traditionally the day of choice, but can be expensive
Many of these ideas are based on weather and budget, as these seem to be the things that most couples think about. I would suggest though that if you can't afford to get married abroad concentrate on the budget side of things, and when it comes to weather...hope for the best and plan for the worst. Just ensure the venue you choose has enough space inside so should the heavens open, your pictures can still get taken and you and your guests still have a fantastic day.
Is the weather a key factor - if it is then you may want to consider a wedding abroad - or is it about having someplace big enough to have all your guests in one place at the same time? The thing is you could choose the middle of winter to get married where the weather is shocking and the surroundings dull, but if you have everyone you want in attendance it won't matter two hoots what it's like outside. Equally if you want the pictures to die for, the freedom to walk around some beautiful grounds then you need to not only pick the perfect time of year but the perfect location, which as we know with the British weather may indeed mean going abroad for some sort of guarantee.
Below is a very short guide on some ideas you might want to think about by month or day of the week.
By Month
January - March - Out of season so can be cheaper
April - June - Good weather (hopefully!)
June - August - Peak season, so can be expensive, but also summer holidays, so good for vocational workers where you don't have to take extra time off to get married and honeymoon
September - October - Depending on honeymoon destination, most rainy seasons have finished around now
October - November - Out of season so can be cheaper
December - Seasonal theme, where you won't have to spend too much on decoration as most venues will be decorated for Christmas & New Year festivities
Days of the week
Monday - Thursday - Very cheap as these are not the most popular days, but think of your guests and time they would need to take off from work
Friday & Sunday - Fast becoming popular choices as they are slightly cheaper
Saturday - Traditionally the day of choice, but can be expensive
Many of these ideas are based on weather and budget, as these seem to be the things that most couples think about. I would suggest though that if you can't afford to get married abroad concentrate on the budget side of things, and when it comes to weather...hope for the best and plan for the worst. Just ensure the venue you choose has enough space inside so should the heavens open, your pictures can still get taken and you and your guests still have a fantastic day.
Monday, 10 May 2010
To Dance, or not to dance
So, to dance or not to dance that is the question!
In recent years it has become more apparent that couples are choosing to be as flamboyant as they can be with their dance. It seems that they are seeing their first dance as a way of expressing who they are without the traditional shuffle around the room with 100 plus guests watching.
Everyone is different, and in a recent wedding, the couple refrained from having a first dance at all, and obviously this was their choice, or maybe the groom's given his lack of confidence on the dancefloor!
The tradition of the first dance, is that it should be the epitome of romance and togetherness, the first dance you share as a married couple, and of course the signalling of the evening entertainment to begin. It usually occurs (in the UK at least) after the ceremony, speeches, food and cake cutting and for many couples it is the part of the day they have been dreading. However you are surrounded by people that you have invited, and who care for you deeply, and while this may be daunting, they are wishing you the very best and hoping this is the start of many happy dances together.
Originally the dance of tradition has been a waltz, but only once have I seen a waltz in the past few years. It was beautiful and you can see why it has long been the dance of choice, but as we know many couples now choose a song and even a routine that reflect their personalities and the dance hasn't been restricted to the post day festivities...anyone seen the church entrance routine by the whole bridal party? I wish I could have seen it in person, but for those that haven't seen it at all, check this out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8DCt3Lmi28.
For ideas and inspiration, have a look at http://www.youtube.com/ and search through some of the tradition, fun and downright outrageous...then choose what's right for you.
Most importantly whatever you decide to do enjoy the first dance with your spouse. If it is a shuffle, take the opportunity to talk to each other and reflect on the day, this will probably be one of the few times throughout the day it will just be the two of you.
In recent years it has become more apparent that couples are choosing to be as flamboyant as they can be with their dance. It seems that they are seeing their first dance as a way of expressing who they are without the traditional shuffle around the room with 100 plus guests watching.
Everyone is different, and in a recent wedding, the couple refrained from having a first dance at all, and obviously this was their choice, or maybe the groom's given his lack of confidence on the dancefloor!
The tradition of the first dance, is that it should be the epitome of romance and togetherness, the first dance you share as a married couple, and of course the signalling of the evening entertainment to begin. It usually occurs (in the UK at least) after the ceremony, speeches, food and cake cutting and for many couples it is the part of the day they have been dreading. However you are surrounded by people that you have invited, and who care for you deeply, and while this may be daunting, they are wishing you the very best and hoping this is the start of many happy dances together.
Originally the dance of tradition has been a waltz, but only once have I seen a waltz in the past few years. It was beautiful and you can see why it has long been the dance of choice, but as we know many couples now choose a song and even a routine that reflect their personalities and the dance hasn't been restricted to the post day festivities...anyone seen the church entrance routine by the whole bridal party? I wish I could have seen it in person, but for those that haven't seen it at all, check this out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8DCt3Lmi28.
For ideas and inspiration, have a look at http://www.youtube.com/ and search through some of the tradition, fun and downright outrageous...then choose what's right for you.
Most importantly whatever you decide to do enjoy the first dance with your spouse. If it is a shuffle, take the opportunity to talk to each other and reflect on the day, this will probably be one of the few times throughout the day it will just be the two of you.
Saturday, 3 April 2010
The legalities of romance
Your wedding day will hopefully be the most exciting, memorable day of your life. In order to ensure that it is, there are a few legalities you will need to adhere to, to make sure you don't get any unexpected surprises as you're packing your dress away and returning the suits.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of things to remember when planning your special day in the UK. This is true even if you plan to get married in a religious building, so make sure you read below and check with your local council office before booking your day if you are in any doubt.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of things to remember when planning your special day in the UK. This is true even if you plan to get married in a religious building, so make sure you read below and check with your local council office before booking your day if you are in any doubt.
1. Under 16 year olds are not legally allowed to marry in the UK
2. Under 18's require written permission from parents or guardians to marry
3. Notice to marry must be given to the local council at least 15 days clear of your wedding day
4. You cannot marry an immediate family member, although in the UK you are allowed to marry a cousin
5. Marriages must be performed in a licensed venue for it to be recognised
6. Marriages must be performed between 8am - 6pm for them to be legal in the UK
7. Marriages must be witnessed by at least 2 adults
None of the above is meant to scare you, but to ensure you are legally married after your special day it's best to check out the paperwork to avert disaster before your head isn't filled with flowers, favours and friends!
If you need any help or advice remember you can always contact me by email on info@weddingsbyelaine.co.uk or by calling me on 0800 542 0391.
2. Under 18's require written permission from parents or guardians to marry
3. Notice to marry must be given to the local council at least 15 days clear of your wedding day
4. You cannot marry an immediate family member, although in the UK you are allowed to marry a cousin
5. Marriages must be performed in a licensed venue for it to be recognised
6. Marriages must be performed between 8am - 6pm for them to be legal in the UK
7. Marriages must be witnessed by at least 2 adults
None of the above is meant to scare you, but to ensure you are legally married after your special day it's best to check out the paperwork to avert disaster before your head isn't filled with flowers, favours and friends!
If you need any help or advice remember you can always contact me by email on info@weddingsbyelaine.co.uk or by calling me on 0800 542 0391.
Tuesday, 26 January 2010
what's in a band...
Hello bloggers, it seems I have come into contact with someone who had a cold, and they have kindly passed it on. A bit irritating as I think it was from a family member (thankfully it's not of the swine variety so I am carrying on). I was at a wedding this weekend and had the best time. I know, you ask surprised, do I ever not, given how much I love weddings, but this one was even better than usual because there was a lot of family gathered from all corners to celebrate together.
The Bride was a beautiful gazelle in a stunning figure hugging dress, with matching coat and the Groom was as dashing as ever in his traditional morning suit. Everyone had smiles on their faces, and wished nothing but happy thoughts for the couple starting their married life together...I know I'm gushing, but it really was an amazing day - and it didn't rain, so was even better!
I think the only thing that made a slight irk was when we'd heard the speeches (embarrassing and funny in equal amounts), finished the food (Salmon, followed by Hog Roast, followed by apple pie and raspberry crumble - delicious), watched the happy couple cut the cake (carrot, lemon drizzle, and victoria sponge layers - heaven) and the band started to play....yes I'm afraid this was where it went slightly awry, they weren't what I had imagined.
Now, I have to say that I'm not a singer, I'd be one of the embarrassing auditionees on X Factor if I thought for one iota I could hold a tune in my head - thankfully I'm not that naive when it comes to my abilities, but honestly I wasn't sure what to make of the chosen band. There is nothing like a good catch up, and wriggle on the dance floor when it comes to weddings, but I'm afraid on this occasion I refrained from gracing the dancefloor. Maybe it's because I didn't have as much to drink as others in our company, but I wasn't overly keen on their rendition of a few of my favourite tracks. Quite possibly down to personal taste, as there were quite a few other guests giving it their best moves, but I'm not totally convinced they played to all the guests in attendance.
But this story is good for you as it lends another tip in your quest for the most perfect day - please go and watch a live performance of the band you choose for your reception entertainment before you part with any money. Your day is ultimately about you and your fiancé having the most wonderful day, but it would be good if your guests could all join in the dancing on the night of your big day. Needless to say the bride and groom (and many of the other dancers!) still had a fabulous day, they were still up dancing with everyone else, but I think they would have been a tad weirded out to hear a couple of minor rumblings amongst their nearest and dearest.
It's up to you, but it wouldn't take much extra effort to vet the entertainment for your day, just to make sure it went without a hitch, or comment.
So for now I will leave you to continue my set up for a wedding fayre I will be attending this weekend - for those of you in the area, I will be at The Roebuck Hotel in Ware, Hertfordshire from 11am - 3pm this Sunday 31st January.
If you have any direct questions or queries, as always here's my email: info@weddingsbyelaine.co.uk
The Bride was a beautiful gazelle in a stunning figure hugging dress, with matching coat and the Groom was as dashing as ever in his traditional morning suit. Everyone had smiles on their faces, and wished nothing but happy thoughts for the couple starting their married life together...I know I'm gushing, but it really was an amazing day - and it didn't rain, so was even better!
I think the only thing that made a slight irk was when we'd heard the speeches (embarrassing and funny in equal amounts), finished the food (Salmon, followed by Hog Roast, followed by apple pie and raspberry crumble - delicious), watched the happy couple cut the cake (carrot, lemon drizzle, and victoria sponge layers - heaven) and the band started to play....yes I'm afraid this was where it went slightly awry, they weren't what I had imagined.
Now, I have to say that I'm not a singer, I'd be one of the embarrassing auditionees on X Factor if I thought for one iota I could hold a tune in my head - thankfully I'm not that naive when it comes to my abilities, but honestly I wasn't sure what to make of the chosen band. There is nothing like a good catch up, and wriggle on the dance floor when it comes to weddings, but I'm afraid on this occasion I refrained from gracing the dancefloor. Maybe it's because I didn't have as much to drink as others in our company, but I wasn't overly keen on their rendition of a few of my favourite tracks. Quite possibly down to personal taste, as there were quite a few other guests giving it their best moves, but I'm not totally convinced they played to all the guests in attendance.
But this story is good for you as it lends another tip in your quest for the most perfect day - please go and watch a live performance of the band you choose for your reception entertainment before you part with any money. Your day is ultimately about you and your fiancé having the most wonderful day, but it would be good if your guests could all join in the dancing on the night of your big day. Needless to say the bride and groom (and many of the other dancers!) still had a fabulous day, they were still up dancing with everyone else, but I think they would have been a tad weirded out to hear a couple of minor rumblings amongst their nearest and dearest.
It's up to you, but it wouldn't take much extra effort to vet the entertainment for your day, just to make sure it went without a hitch, or comment.
So for now I will leave you to continue my set up for a wedding fayre I will be attending this weekend - for those of you in the area, I will be at The Roebuck Hotel in Ware, Hertfordshire from 11am - 3pm this Sunday 31st January.
If you have any direct questions or queries, as always here's my email: info@weddingsbyelaine.co.uk
Tuesday, 19 January 2010
New Start to the New Year
Sorry it's been a while - can you believe we're already in the middle of January, I feel this is going to be another fast paced year!
Anyway, to let you know what's been going on...I resigned from my day job. I don't think I told you much about me as a person, just launched into some helpful (hopefully) hints on where to start with planning and how to enjoy your wedding. But, I have been a Project Manager for many years working for both large and small companies, however the time has come to branch out on my own. I have taken the leap of faith and am going to be a Wedding Planner full time. This is a 4 year decision in the making, but I'm determined that this will be my year...well it feels like it should be anyway.
With 2 bookings in the diary, and 2 hopefully coming this way - and 2 in the diary for next year, January has started out well...let's hope it continues, as I have now given up my full time income, hmm, fingers crossed.
As with any great momentus decision while empowering taking things into your own hands, it can feel very daunting. That's about where I am right now, so bare with me as I share with you the ups and downs of working on my own as well as trying to impart some words of wisdom that might help you on your journey as you plan your special day.
Until next time...
Don't forget contact me any time if you need advice or a point in the right direction: info@weddingsbyelaine.co.uk
Anyway, to let you know what's been going on...I resigned from my day job. I don't think I told you much about me as a person, just launched into some helpful (hopefully) hints on where to start with planning and how to enjoy your wedding. But, I have been a Project Manager for many years working for both large and small companies, however the time has come to branch out on my own. I have taken the leap of faith and am going to be a Wedding Planner full time. This is a 4 year decision in the making, but I'm determined that this will be my year...well it feels like it should be anyway.
With 2 bookings in the diary, and 2 hopefully coming this way - and 2 in the diary for next year, January has started out well...let's hope it continues, as I have now given up my full time income, hmm, fingers crossed.
As with any great momentus decision while empowering taking things into your own hands, it can feel very daunting. That's about where I am right now, so bare with me as I share with you the ups and downs of working on my own as well as trying to impart some words of wisdom that might help you on your journey as you plan your special day.
Until next time...
Don't forget contact me any time if you need advice or a point in the right direction: info@weddingsbyelaine.co.uk
Friday, 1 January 2010
Happy New Year
I hope your head's aren't too sore this morning...have a coffee and have a look out the window - welcome the New Year.
Let's make this a fantastic 2010 and share ideas and thoughts on what can make your wedding fantastic.
Let's make this a fantastic 2010 and share ideas and thoughts on what can make your wedding fantastic.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
