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

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

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.