Hamish Shephard, Author at Bridebook

How Much Does a Wedding Cake Cost? The 2024 Average Revealed

A wedding cake plays a huge part in your wedding. Not only is it a centrepiece at the wedding reception, but also acts as a talking point – with the added benefit of your guests getting to eat it too.

But exactly how much a wedding cake costs depends on a lot, from the number of tiers to the flavour. You may want an elegant, traditional fruit cake, or a towering chocolate explosion – the choices are endless.

In this post, we’ll take a look at everything to do with the cost of a wedding cake, including the average cost, what can affect the price, and what type of cake you might expect for your budget.

What’s the average cost of a wedding cake?

Photo © Edible Essence Cake Couture Co. | See their Bridebook profile

In our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, we revealed that the average cost of a wedding cake in the UK is £400-£500. However, what you’ll actually pay could be lower – or much, much higher, depending on what you’re looking for.

For example, if you have a tighter budget, then a two-tier, lightly decorated vanilla sponge will be more affordable. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a touch of extravagance, a four-tier cake with multiple flavours and intricate detail will need a considerably more generous budget.

Number of Tiers	Affordable	Moderate	Luxury
2	£250 – £300	£350-400	£650- £750
3	£300 – £350	£450- £500	£850- £900
4	£400 – £450	£550- £600	£950- £1,000

If you’re on a budget, check out our post on ways to save money on your wedding cake. Do note that there are always compromises if you opt for the DIY approach.

By contrast, if you’re looking for a designer wedding cake which is completely custom-made, you can expect to pay well over £1,000 on average, even for cakes starting with relatively few tiers. This is because you’re paying for one-of-a-kind artistry, craftsmanship and unrivalled expertise, and there’s a lot of labour involved with making an elegant bespoke cake. Plus, there’s a very personal, and extended, level of service involved – a large, complicated designer cake can start months in advance, involving many consultations and back-and-forth communications to get the design just right for you and you alone, and take days to decorate once everything has been finalised.

How much should you pay for a wedding cake?

Photo © Wedding Cakes by Lisa Broughton | See their Bridebook profile

How much you should pay for your wedding cake is down to what works for you – there is no right or wrong answer. If a wedding cake is something you want to include as a formality (or to appease Grandma), then you may want something small purely for the sake of your photos and to give your guests an extra dessert (once again, appeasing Grandma). In fact, if you’re not interested in traditions, you don’t need a wedding cake at all – something unique, like a pie or a jelly, works just as well and makes for a great talking point.

Do bespoke wedding cakes cost more?

Photo © Daisy Molly and Me | See their Bridebook profile

Yes, a bespoke wedding cake will cost considerably more than a ‘generic design’, as we’ve already touched upon above, due to the amount of time it takes the cake maker to design and make a one-of-a-kind cake which also doubles as a showstopping work of edible art. This could include having to create new techniques, sourcing new cake moulds, or crafting sugar models and patterns.

Store-made cakes are also made in large batches and often frozen before they’re bought, whereas bespoke cakes are freshly made. It can still be a lovely cake to both admire and eat, but a bespoke cake adds that unparalleled touch of quality, and so naturally comes with a premium price tag.

How many tiers does your wedding cake need?

Photo © By Yevnig | See their Bridebook profile

Traditionally, a wedding cake will have three tiers, but that’s not to say that your cake should stick to this. It’s your wedding, and if you want your cake to have two tiers (or 14 if you’re so inclined – you do you) then there’s nothing stopping you.

The only thing to be mindful of is how many guests your cake may need to feed. The more guests you have, then if you plan on letting everyone have a slice the bigger it’ll need to be.

What about novelty cakes?

Photo © Sherry Hostler Cake Artistry | See their Bridebook profile

If you’re keen on cake but not big on tradition, a show-stopping novelty cake can work as a great centrepiece. A three-tier cake will turn some heads, but a novelty cake shaped like something other than a cake is a great way to add another layer of personalisation to your wedding. Whether it’s a mountain if you enjoy hiking, a carousel if you both love going to the fair, or a pile of books if you’re both big readers, there are a million and one options for a creative – but still elegant and classy – wedding cake. However, because novelty cakes take a lot of work, they can cost a lot more – but are definitely worth it.

Another option to consider is a selection of cupcakes, such as from The Costa Cupcake Company and The Daisy Chain Bakery. The number of cupcakes can be customised to the number of guests you’ve invited, so everyone gets one. Cupcakes can be decorated to complement your style or theme, and there’s also the benefit of them being a huge crowd pleaser, too.

Does the number of decorations affect the cost of a wedding cake?

Photo © Pasticceria Lorena | See their Bridebook profile

Wedding cake prices can increase depending on the number of sugar decorations that you have, so think carefully before committing to a dozen sugar flowers on each tier. A ready-made sugar flower sold separately from the cake can cost £6.75, and bespoke flowers like peonies and roses for crowning the cake can add another £30 – £40. Many couples choose to decorate their cake with real or plastic flowers, both of which save a considerable amount of money and still look absolutely amazing.

What other factors can affect the cost of a wedding cake?

Photo © Claire Arscott Cake Design | See their Bridebook profile

When it comes to your wedding cake, there are plenty of factors that will affect how much you’ll pay. The following are the most important:

Tiers: The more tiers there are, the more your cake will cost.
Location: Where your cake makers are based will affect the cost. For example, those located in London will naturally have higher rates than those outside.
Design: A more complex or intricate cake design will take more time and skill than a simple or more subtle design, bumping up the cost.
Techniques: The techniques involved are another potential variable in the cost, for example, whether the cake will be hand-painted, or airbrushed with stencils, or whether it needs to be sculpted free-hand, or is of a simpler shape.
Toppers: Cake toppers offer a cute way to personalise your cake, but can take a lot of time to craft, especially if they’re bespoke.
Flavour: A basic sponge cake will be more affordable than luxurious triple chocolate or alcohol-soaked fruit cake.
Dummy layers: If you want more tiers but not necessarily more cake, dummy layers will lower the cost by (though not always by as much as you might think).
Ingredients: If organic or premium ingredients are important to you then you’ll need a budget to reflect it. Ingredients for the decoration will also add to the cost – for example, if there’s sugar, buttercream, or even fresh flowers.
Stand: A basic cake stand will be more affordable than one that’s extravagant.
Delivery and setup fees: If delivery and setup take a long time, especially for large and elaborate cakes, then expect to pay a little extra.

What else should you bear in mind?

Photo © Tees Bakery | See their Bridebook profile

You’ll be the first to slice your cake, but don’t expect to have to cut every guest a slice yourself. When speaking to your catering team, ask them exactly how you want your cake to be sliced. If you have a fruit cake, the denseness and richness mean you don’t need to be overly generous with size like you might with a more delicate sponge. Another way to ensure a better cost-per-slice ratio is with square slices instead of wedges.

When it comes to taste, vanilla, chocolate and lemon are the most popular wedding cake flavours, and luckily they’re also among the cheapest. A fruit cake made with fresh fruit will be more expensive, but as we mentioned above, its intense (and more acquired) taste means it’ll go further. Also, rolled fondant and marzipan will cost more, as they take more time to smooth and can tear easily if not applied carefully.

What about dummy layers?

Photo © Lotti & Lu | See their Bridebook profile

Dummy layers are a crafty way to add extra tiers to your cake while ensuring the cost doesn’t spiral out of control. Dummy layers are made from styrofoam and covered in the same icing as the other layers, so your guests will be none the wiser. They’re a great way to save if you’re keen on a five-tier cake but only need 70 servings. A fake layer (or two) can add drama and extra height, without the need for a filling or unnecessary weight. The layer itself doesn’t cost a lot, but it’s worth bearing in mind that lots of detail will still drive up the price.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

Sign up to Bridebook and effortlessly plan your wedding today! We have a huge selection of amazing wedding cake makers to make your wedding cake dreams come true!

And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding cake, we’ve put together our top tips to help you cut costs without cutting out all the best bits.

Happy Planning!

Ultimate Guide to Wedding Invitations: Design, Etiquette, and Trends

When planning your big day, the first impression you’ll make on your guests is through your wedding invitation. It sets the tone for your wedding and gives guests a glimpse into the style and theme of the event. This guide will delve deep into every aspect of wedding invitations: from design and etiquette to the latest trends.

1. The Importance of a Wedding Invitation

A wedding invitation is not just a mere piece of paper. It’s a reflection of the couple’s personality, style, and the ambiance they wish to create for their wedding day.

2. Designing Your Wedding Invitation

Designing your wedding invitation is a creative process that allows couples to express their unique style and the essence of their love story. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown to help guide you:

Theme and Style: Before diving into colors or typography, decide on an overarching theme or style. Do you want a rustic charm, classic elegance, modern minimalism, or a quirky, offbeat design? Your theme will set the groundwork for other design elements.
Colors: Your color choice is paramount. Start with your wedding colors or those that resonate with your chosen theme. For instance, pastels are perfect for spring weddings, while jewel tones may suit a winter celebration. Don’t be afraid to play with color gradients or metallic shades for added flair.
Typography: Fonts play a significant role in conveying the mood of your invitation. Traditional weddings often gravitate towards script or calligraphy fonts, while contemporary designs might use bold, clean typefaces. Combining two complementary fonts can also add depth and interest.
Graphics and Illustrations: These elements can be the highlight of your invitation design:
- Floral Designs: Ideal for garden or rustic-themed weddings.
- Geometric Patterns: Offers a modern, chic look.
- Custom Illustrations: Personalized sketches of the couple or significant landmarks can make your invite truly one-of-a-kind.
- Monograms: Personalized monograms of the couple’s initials woven into the design add a touch of elegance.
Material: The choice of material can elevate the look and feel of your invitation:
- Classic Paper: Opt for textured or linen paper for a luxurious feel.
- Velvet: Adds a touch of opulence and is soft to the touch.
- Wood: Perfect for rustic or boho-themed weddings.
- Acrylic: This modern choice is sleek and can be paired with beautiful inks or even etching.
- Fabric: Cloth invitations or fabric scrolls can be an exotic and memorable choice.
Envelope Design: An often-overlooked aspect, the envelope is the first thing your guests see. Consider envelope liners, wax seals, or embossing for added sophistication.
Printing Techniques: The way your invitation is printed can drastically impact its aesthetics:
- Letterpress: This technique gives a debossed effect, where
- the design is pressed into the paper.
- Foil Stamping: Adds a metallic sheen to selected areas, perfect for luxurious invites.
- Digital Printing: A versatile option that allows for vibrant color reproduction.
- Thermography: Creates raised ink, giving texture and a classic feel.
Additional Elements: Consider adding ribbons, dried flowers, lace, or even semi-precious stones for a tactile and visual treat.

3. Wedding Invitation Etiquette

How long before a wedding should you send invitations?

Typically, wedding invitations are sent out 6-8 weeks before the wedding day. If you’re hosting a destination wedding, giving your guests more notice—around 3-4 months—is advisable, so they can make necessary travel arrangements.

What do I write on a wedding invitation?

A wedding invitation usually includes:

The names of the hosts (often the parents of the bride).
The couple’s names.
A request to attend the wedding, such as “request the pleasure of your company.”
Date and time of the ceremony.
Location of the ceremony.
Reception details, if different from the ceremony venue.
RSVP information.

Here’s a simple example: “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the pleasure of your company at the wedding of their daughter, Emma Smith, to Liam Johnson on Saturday, the fifth of June, at three o’clock in the afternoon at the Rose Garden Chapel. Reception to follow at the Grand Ballroom of Hillside Hotel.“

Whose name goes first on a wedding invitation?

Traditionally, the bride’s name precedes the groom’s on a wedding invitation. For instance, “Emma Smith and Liam Johnson.” However, modern invitations might not follow this convention, especially if the couple or their families have a preference.

How much time do you give guests to RSVP to a wedding?

It’s customary to ask guests to RSVP about 2-3 weeks before the wedding. This allows you ample time to finalize seating arrangements, catering headcounts, and other logistics dependent on the guest count.

4. Trending Now: Wedding Invitation Trends for 2023

Sustainable Invitations: Eco-friendly materials and digital invites are gaining traction.
Mixed Media: Combining materials like paper and acrylic, or paper and fabric, offers a unique tactile experience.
Interactive Invitations: QR codes that lead to a personal video or your wedding website are innovative additions.
Bold Colors: While pastels are timeless, bold and contrasting colors are making a statement this year.

5. Budgeting for Your Invitations

Remember, the cost isn’t just the card. Consider the price of stamps, envelopes, and any additional inserts. If on a tight budget, digital invitations or simpler designs can be more cost-effective.

Your wedding invitation is the first chapter of your wedding story. Make it memorable, personal, and a true reflection of your journey together. Whether you’re going traditional, trendy, or somewhere in between, ensure it resonates with the essence of your special day.

What To Include On Your Information Sheet

Starting to put together your wedding invitation suite? Then a big well done from us because that likely means you’ve sorted your Guest List – and that’s no mean feat! Now, if you haven’t already, you’ll want to take a look at our introduction to your wedding stationery and start off by getting to grips with all the different items you’ll need. Done that? Then read on to learn all about your wedding information sheet.

Psst! Need to know where to send your invitations? Try using our handy Address Collector to sort it all out in just one click.

What Is Your Wedding Information Sheet For?

Well, as we always say, your wedding is the celebration of the century – and while that means tons of fun, it also means lots of logistics! Since your wedding invitations only include the very basics (date, time, location), your wedding information sheet lets your guests know everything else: how to get to the venue, where they can stay, what they should wear… Plus, it lessens the chance that you’ll have to field a ton of last-minute queries on the day!

Bridebook.co.uk- order of service written on a blackboard — By Guy Hearn

What Information Should You Include On Your Wedding Information Sheet?

Well, every wedding is different – so your wedding information sheet will be specific to the details and requirements of your own wedding. The easiest thing to do is to put yourself in the shoes of one of your wedding guests and think about what questions they might have! To get you started, here are a few things we’d expect to find on most information sheets:

1. Directions

Always include directions to your ceremony and/or reception venue. You may also want to include maps of surrounding area for guests who aren’t familiar with the location. Bonus points if you throw in a list of local attractions and your recommendations for any guests combining your wedding with a getaway!

Psst! If you’re still looking for the perfect place to tie the knot, why not use our Venue Search Tool?

2. Transport Links And Taxis

It’s always helpful to add a list of transport links (eg. the closest train station, the best airport to fly into) for guests who don’t drive or are coming from further afield. It’s also a good idea to provide your guests with the contact details of local, reputable taxi firms or the details of any nearby car parking.

Bridebook.co.uk- guests sitting on hay bells — By Weddings Vintage

3. Accommodation

It’s more likely than not that at least a few of your guests will want to stay nearby so make sure to offer them a few recommendations for accommodation. If you’re not sure, ask your wedding venue where they recommend guests stay. And if you can, why not reserve a few rooms at a local hotel or bed and breakfast in advance? That way, you’ll know they’re not fully booked and you can just let your friends know to mention your name to secure a room.

4. Dress Code

If your wedding has a dress code, you will most likely have included it on your invitation – but now’s your chance to go into a bit more detail. For example, if you’re getting married in a marquee, you might want to let your guests know they’ll need “lawn-friendly” shoes. Or if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony in mid-winter, make sure to mention to your guests that they’ll want to pack their mittens!

5. Children

Are you planning on having children at your wedding? Your wedding invitation will most likely indicate in some way if you’re planning a “child-free” wedding but it’s always worth reiterating on your information sheet to make sure everyone’s got the message! If you will be including children but you’ve made any special arrangements (eg. providing a crêche), here’s where to go into detail.

cards and gifts table with a suitcase — By Guy Hearn

6. Presents

If you’re nervous about mentioning your gift list – don’t be! If you don’t put the details of your gift list on your wedding information sheet, your guests will just ask you directly instead. Or, if you want to be a little more subtle, you could always have your gift list details printed separately onto small cards you can slip into your envelopes alongside your invitations.

7. The Bar!

If you already know you’ll be having a cash bar, now’s a good time to let your guests know. Make sure to let them know any extra details too, like which cards the bar accepts and whether or not they’re cashless.

Psst! If you need some help deciding between an open bar and a cash bar, check out our guide to wedding alcohol here.

8. Carriages

Ever struggled to get everyone out at the end of a house party? Well, “Carriages” is an easy way to avoid that happening at your wedding! It lets your guests know the latest time by which they’ll need to leave the venue. Including it on your information sheet means they can make arrangements for getting home in advance.

9. The Day After

Are you planning activities for the day after? Whether you’ll be hosting brunch or organising a golfing trip, let your guests know the details so they can plan accordingly.

Of course, you don’t have to send out an information sheet – and not all couples do. A great alternative – whether it’s because you want to cut costs or reduce waste – is to set up a wedding website and include the URL on your invitations. Then you can host all the above information there – and update it for everybody any time. Make sure to include your contact details, as well as those of your best (wo)man or maid/man of honour, so that your guests can ask any additional questions.

How Much Does Wedding Catering Cost? The 2024 Average Revealed

When it comes to hosting a memorable wedding, food and drink are a huge contributing factor. Including canapés and arrival drinks, a three or four-course wedding breakfast and a spread for the evening buffet, your guests will spend a large portion of their time at your wedding enjoying some delicious food and drink.

But how much does wedding catering cost, so you know exactly how much of your budget you need to dedicate toward keeping your guests fed, watered (or wined!) and – ultimately – happy?

In this post we’re going to take a look at the average cost of catering a wedding and what can affect that cost – including the alcohol.

How does the pricing work?

Photo © Pure Indulgence Catering | See their Bridebook profile

The first thing you need to know is that, depending on the venue, catering can often be done in-house. But, if the venue doesn’t offer catering that suits your taste, you can hire caterers to come to your venue separately. Venues that include catering are usually priced per head, meaning there will be a set price for every guest which will include food (a buffet or sit-down meal), the venue rental and sometimes half a bottle of wine per person for the meal and some bubbly for the toasts.

If a venue is priced at a lump sum, it usually means that catering is not included and what you are paying goes towards securing the venue. For more information check out our post on the cost of a wedding venue.

What is the average cost of catering a wedding?

Photo © The Wedding Kitchen | See their Bridebook profile

How much your wedding catering costs depends entirely on how many people you’re looking to invite. The more people you invite the more hungry mouths there will be, and of course the higher the cost will be.

In our ultimate guide to budgeting a wedding, we outlined that to cater an 80- to 90-guest wedding you can expect to spend an average of £5,700 overall. This may initially sound like a lot, but it actually equates to just over £65 per person, which is quite reasonable when you consider it’s their food for the entire day. However, it’s also enough to make you think twice when liberally handing out those +1s.

Of course, if your wedding is more intimate than that – or more grandiose – it can drastically change that figure. Based on this, to cater a 40-guest wedding the average cost will be around £2,600, and a 160-guest wedding will cost around £10,400.

This is of course based on the average, and depending on your budget there’s a range of options available:

Affordable – £20 – £40 per head
Moderate – £40 – £60 per head
Luxury – £60 – £80 per head
Super luxury – £80+ per head

Is it cheaper per head the more guests there are?

Photo © Create | See their Bridebook profile

You may expect the price per head to reduce depending on the greater the number of guests there are, but this isn’t always the case when it comes to catering a wedding. It will usually depend on several factors, including the venue, the number of kitchen and wait staff required, and the dining style.

For example, the price per head will be cheaper if you provide buffet-style food or food trucks than it would with a four-course meal, regardless of how many guests are attending.

How much does a wedding breakfast cost?

Photo © Lettice Events | See their Bridebook profile

The wedding breakfast will generally be one of the most expensive parts of your wedding reception. They’re usually multi-course sit-down meals that are meticulously run from a busy kitchen like a well-oiled machine – and that kind of operation comes at a cost.

The average cost of a wedding breakfast will be around £30-40 per head, but certain venues and vendors can charge more than three times this amount.

To make sure you get all the information you need, check out our post on what questions you should ask your wedding caterer.

How much does an evening buffet cost?

Photo © Dine | See their Bridebook profile

Your evening buffet is a far more relaxed meal, which offers a greater choice of food and the need for fewer servers. It also offers you the chance to fill the bellies of your guests who could only come to the evening reception.

The average cost of a buffet is usually around £20-30 per head, however, this can also vary depending on the selection of dishes on offer and the type of cuisine. For example, chicken and chips will be far more affordable than hand-made sushi!

What else can affect the cost of catering a wedding?

Photo © Le Mange Tout | See their Bridebook profile

The above costs are all averages, and you’ll make plenty of choices that will make that cost go either down or way (WAY) up. These include:

Style of service: the cost of a buffet, sit-down meal, or food truck can vary hugely. For example, for a sit-down meal, you would have to factor in the wages of the waiters (it’s recommended to have 1 per 11 guests) and a buffet would have a wider selection of food options. There are thousands of caterers offering a wide variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Menu choice: The more options you offer your guests outside of the standard meat, fish or vegetarian/vegan, the more you’re likely to pay.
The venue: Does it have its own catering team? If you’re hiring a catering team separate from the venue, you may also need to factor in the cost of hiring a marquee and portable kitchen. These costs can quickly add up, adding several thousand to the cost of your catering. Some venues have a list of preferred caterers, so make sure you ask your chosen wedding venue if there are limitations.
The food: Some food is cheaper to make than others. If you’re keen to offer oysters and caviar, don’t be surprised if it’s more expensive than if you were to offer sandwiches and vol-au-vents.
The ingredients: Some caterers may offer premium ingredients, and if imported or organic produce is important to you then expect to pay a little extra.
The number of courses: Are you happy with a three-course meal, or would you like to offer hors d’oeuvres, a fish course, palate-cleansing sorbets, and mignardise? The more courses there are (and the more complex they are to make) the pricier it will be.
The date: you can expect to pay higher rates during peak times, such as during the summer and at weekends.

What about the alcohol?

Photo © Caper & Berry | See their Bridebook profile

While it can be tempting to offer an open bar, a wedding is one of those rare occasions when people tend to let their hair down. As a result, many of your guests will want to partake in a drink or two (or five or six). The cost of an open bar can quickly become eye-wateringly expensive, which is why many couples opt instead for a bottle or two of wine per table, plus a glass of bubbles on arrival and for the toasts. Then, if guests would like any other drinks, they’re free to choose what they like from a cash bar.

Remember, if you choose to supply your own fizz or bottles of wine, the venue may charge a corkage fee, which can be around £5-11 per bottle.

For more information check out our ultimate guide to wedding alcohol.

Ready to plan your big day?

Need a hand (or two) with wedding planning? Join Bridebook and get all the tools you need to plan your big day from start to finish. Plan your wedding budget, find your wedding venues and suppliers, organise your guest list and more.

And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding catering, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to help you keep costs down.

Happy Planning!

Bridal Makeup by Bobbi Brown

Bridebook was lucky enough to have Bobbi Brown herself spill all her wedding beauty secrets…she reveals all below:

bridebook.co.uk bobbi brown portrait — The gorgeous and inspirational Bobbi Brown herself

No matter your age, bridal makeup should be special. On your wedding day, you should look like yourself at your most beautiful. However, it’s not a time to try a look that is very trendy or radically different from your usual style. Wedding makeup should be long lasting, look amazing in photographs, and be timeless.

When you look at your wedding pictures ten years from now, you should still love the way you looked.

bridebook.co.uk bobbi brown shimmer brick — The Bobbi Brown Shimmer Block, perfect for giving your cheeks some colour for your wedding day.

Bridal makeup needs to have enough colour to compensate for the whiteness of the dress. Remember, there’s a big difference between everyday clothes and a wedding dress, so there should be difference in your makeup, too.

Start by making sure your skin looks even and smooth, and then add colour to your cheeks and lips to give them a glow. Finish with eye makeup that defines your eyes but doesn’t look overdone. To avoid feeling rushed, allow 45 minutes to an hour for makeup application on the wedding day.

Bridebook.co.uk-Bobbi Brown Concealer — Bobbi Brown’s concealer to cover dark circles under your eyes.

A few wedding beauty tips:

Emphasise your eyes by brightening any darkness under them with corrector and concealer.

Set concealer and foundation with a sheer loose powder. Powder applied with a powder puff assures amazing wearability and reduces unwanted shine – a must-have look for pictures.

Neutral, brown, and pale lip colours can look washed out in photographs, so choose a lipstick that’s one or two shades brighter than what you normally wear. If you usually wear a neutral hue, it should be worn as a base, with a pink or rose colour on top. If you typically wear dark lipstick, use that as the base, and apply a brighter pink on top to give the colour a lift. Pinks, roses and plums are all great, classic choices for brides.

Define your eyes by applying colour in the crease, but avoid using a shade that’s too dense or dark, as it can detract from the eyes themselves.

Use a water-resistant liner that can withstand tears! If you prefer to line with shadow, make it last longer by applying it with a slightly damp eyeliner brush.

After applying all your makeup, finish with a highlighter shade on the brow bone to make the eyes pop. Rub your finger in a light matte shade, and pat lightly on the outer corner of the brow bone.

Bridebook.co.uk-Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Color — Bobbi Brown’s Luxe Lip Colour, Pinks, roses and plums are all great classic lip colours for brides

And of course, make sure to take care of yourself on the inside too – eat well in the weeks leading up to your wedding, and try to exercise a few times a week. Drink lots of water to keep yourself hydrated and refreshed, and take a relaxing bath the night before.

Most of all, be present! Slow down and appreciate what’s around you rather than rushing to get from start to finish.

Bridebook.co.uk-Bobbi Brown Foundation Sticks — Bobbi Brown’s Foundation Sticks

Happy Planning!

Ready to book your make – up artist for your big day? Have a read of our useful article ‘15 Questions To Ask Your Make-Up Artist‘

Browse other similar articles:

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Bridal Musings’ Expert Tips For Wowing Your Guests On Your Wedding Day

Wedding Cake Tips by Mary Berry

Etsy Spill Top Decorating Tips To Bridebook

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How To Write Your Wedding Speech (Grooms’ Edition)

As a groom, your wedding speech can be one of the most important parts of your wedding day. It’s your big chance to tell everyone how wonderful the love of your life is – but don’t freak out! We’ve put together this handy guide that will take you through writing, preparing and delivering a killer groom wedding speech.

Of course, an individual speech might not be for you– and in that case, why not give a joint speech with your partner? It takes the pressure off and is a great way to kick off your marriage as a real unit. Otherwise, read on for our top tips on writing the groom’s wedding speech.

How To Get Started With Your Groom’s Speech

1. Ask For Help

If you’re not sure where to start with your wedding speech – well, you’re in the right place! But there’s nothing better than talking to people who’ve already done it. What are your married friends glad they did and what do they wish they’d done differently? If you still have a few weddings to attend before your own, pay close attention to the speeches too.

2. Brainstorm

There are a few things you’ll definitely cover in your speech so start off with a brainstorm. What do you definitely want to mention? Who do you absolutely need to thank and what stories are you certain you want to tell?

How To Write Your Groom’s Speech

There’s no right or wrong way to give a groom’s speech – so do what you want! But if you need some help, here’s a simple structure to use as a starting point:

1. Say thank you

If you’re part of a couple made up of a bride and groom, it’s likely you’ll be the second speech of the evening as it’s tradition for the groom’s speech to follow the father of the bride’s. In this case, you may want to start by thanking him for his kind words – and, of course, raising his wonderful daughter!

Psst! If there is a father of the bride who needs some ideas for his speech, check out our top tips for him here.

Otherwise, you’ll either want to start off by thanking the person who spoke before you – whether that’s your partner themselves or one of their parents – or by thanking your guests. At this point, you might also want to mention any absent friends, including those who’ve passed away.

Next, thank your best man (or woman) and ushers. (Top tip: now’s a good time to jump in and mock yourself before your best man has a chance to!) And make sure to give a few moments to your partner’s half of the wedding party too, whether that’s another set of groomsmen or the bridal party.

2. Give Your Family Some Love

Now it’s time to give your families some love. Thank your family for their support and thank your partner’s family for bringing up such a wonderful person! Shout out any relatives who’ve been a particular help in the wedding planning process. Now’s also a good time to mention any funny anecdotes about meeting your new in-laws…

3. Talk About Your Partner

This is the moment you’ve been waiting for: speaking about the love of your life. Now’s your time to tell everyone what makes them the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Why did you fall in love? What are you excited for about your life together?

4. Thank Everyone Again

Close your speech with one last thanks to your guests and wedding party… Then sit back and prepare yourself for the best (wo)man’s speech!

Preparing the Groom’s Speech

1. Cut It Down

The best speeches are short and sweet – so even if you want to thank every person and tell every story, be ruthless. Keep it to the must-haves.

2. Get A Second Opinion

Practise your speech with a close friend and get their thoughts. But don’t practise too much – leave yourself room to relax into it.

Delivering the Groom’s Speech

1. Work Out The Running Order

If your partner is also giving a speech, have a quick chat with them about who will go first. Never make assumptions!

2. Do A Soundcheck

Make sure to test the mics beforehand. If you don’t have time on the day, ask one of your groomsmen to step up.

3. Get It On Camera

If you don’t have a videographer, make sure someone films your speech (as well as everyone else’s). You don’t want to forget this moment!

4. Relax

The key to delivering a killer speech? Relax, have fun with it and enjoy the moment. As long as you speak from the heart, any speech you give will be absolutely perfect.

Wedding Stationery Ideas – Smart Wedding Invitations by Paperless Post

Here at Bridebook we tend to consider ourselves slightly tech obsessed (as is obvious from the super exciting state-of-the-art planning tools we created just for you!), so when we had a chance to chat with the modern stationary extraordinaires at Paperless Post we got very excited.

Leader in all things eco-friendly, forward thinking, and stylish, Paperless Post is the go-to for all couples who love beautiful design paired with seamless technology. So who better to guide you through the ins and outs of stylishly smart wedding stationery? Read on below to get some insight from the pros:

Bridebook.co.uk the free online wedding planner

You’ve got enough to worry about before the big day. With our wedding invitations timeline, we’re making every aspect of your wedding stationery—from picking a colour palette and designing a custom invitation to managing and writing your thank you notes—stress-free and easy. We’ve laid out everything you’ll need to do and when you need to do it so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

bridebook.co.uk paperless posts save the dates

The early bird gets the long weekend.

You’ll need to find a venue and settle on a date first, but once you have, the save the date should be sent out as soon as possible. We recommend sending them out 4-6 months before your wedding date to ensure that your guests are available to attend. All the save the date needs to include are your names, the date, and a city—just enough information for guests to start thinking about travel plans, but not enough to give everything away (especially if the details aren’t totally settled yet).

We often suggest sending save the dates out online—not only because getting the word out early is key, but because our online save the dates can collect guests’ mailing addresses for your paper invitations with ease.

bridebook.co.uk paperless post wedding suites

Wedding invitations that reflect your personal style.

The official wedding invitation should follow the save the date within a couple of months, about 2–4 months before the wedding, after a majority of the event details are ironed out. Paper invitations—available on paperlesspost.com flat-printed, foil-stamped, engraved, letterpressed, or thermographed—are a beautiful keepsake for guests to remember your wedding by. (Plus, if you collected mailing addresses with your online save the date, it’ll be easy to order pre-addressed envelopes for each of your guests.)

Depending on the style of your wedding, you might want to choose an invitation designed by one of the world’s leading fashion houses—like Oscar de la Renta, Vera Wang, or Kate Spade New York—or contact our Personal Design Service specialists to order custom artwork based on your venue or vision.

bridebook.co.uk wedding invitations by paperless post on ipad

Hens, I do.

In the months approaching your wedding date, there will be plenty of parties thrown in your honour, most importantly your hen party. The hosts of the event will most likely take care of all the heavy lifting, sending out the invitations about one month before each event and including links to the event’s gift registry. All you need to do is relax and enjoy the party.

bridebook.co.uk paperless post wedding menus with a lslice of cake

Walk the aisle, then wine and dine.

As your wedding date approaches, it’s time to start thinking about day-of stationery items like menus and programs that are useful for tying your entire event together. If you didn’t already select a matching set of menus and programs while ordering your wedding invitations, order a pair that complements the colours and feel of the venue.

Order them no less than one month before the wedding day to ensure that they arrive with plenty of time to spare.

bridebook.co.uk paperless post stationery with pen

Thank you and you and you.

After the wedding has come and gone, it’s time to relax and enjoy life as a newlywed. Don’t worry about writing your thank you notes until after the honeymoon, but do order the stationery beforehand so there are no to-dos looming over you while you holiday (do yourself an even bigger favour and order pre-addressed envelopes for each guest while you’re at it.)

As long as you order them some time before you leave for your trip, a pristine box of thank you notes will be waiting for you when you get back.

bridebook.co.uk paperless post modern style wedding invitations

When all is said and done, we want you to be able to look back on the wedding planning process with a sigh of nostalgia, not relief. To make good on that wish, we have a talented, kind team of design specialists at the ready to help you every step of the way. Whether you need a custom watercolour motif for your stationery suite or just a little hand-holding, we’re here to make everything just a little bit simpler.

Happy Planning!

Wedding readings for all denominations

Do you need help choosing the readings at your wedding? Is it an inter-faith ceremony, Jewish, Christian or secular. Below are examples of Bridebook’s favourite readings!

Bridebook.co.uk- vicar standing with order of service — By Chris Giles

A reading from the Book of Genesis 1:26-28, 31a (Catholic)

Then God said:
“Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.
Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea,
the birds of the air, and the cattle,
and over all the wild animals
and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.”
God created man in his image;
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.
God blessed them, saying:
“Be fertile and multiply;
fill the earth and subdue it.
Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air,
and all the living things that move on the earth.”
God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good.
The word of the Lord.

Bridebook.co.uk- guests sitting listening to wedding readings — By John Lennie

Winnie-the-Pooh, AA Milne (book)

Wherever I am, there’s always Pooh,

There’s always Pooh and Me.

Whatever I do, he wants to do,

“Where are you going today?” says Pooh:

“Well, that’s very odd ‘cos I was too.

Let’s go together,” says Pooh, says he.

“Let’s go together,” says Pooh.

So wherever I am, there’s always Pooh,

There’s always Pooh and Me.

“What would I do?” I said to Pooh,

“If it wasn’t for you,” and Pooh said: “True,

It isn’t much fun for One, but Two,

Can stick together, says Pooh, says he. “That’s how it is,” says Pooh.

Bridebook.co.uk- bridesmaid reading from a piece of paper — By Luis Holden

Les Misérables, Victor Hugo (book)

“The future belongs to hearts even more than it does to minds. Love, that is the only thing that can occupy and fill eternity. In the infinite, the inexhaustible is requisite.

Love participates of the soul itself. It is of the same nature. Like it, it is the divine spark; like it, it is incorruptible, indivisible, imperishable. It is a point of fire that exists within us, which is immortal and infinite, which nothing can confine, and which nothing can extinguish. We feel it burning even to the very marrow of our bones, and we see it beaming in the very depths of heaven.”

Bridebook.co.uk- reading being said at the lectern — By Miki Photography

Jane Eyre, Charlotte Bronte (book)

“I have for the first time found what I can truly love – I have found you. You are my sympathy – my better self – my good angel; I am bound to you with a strong attachment. I think you good, gifted, lovely: a fervent, a solemn passion is conceived in my heart; it leans to you, draws you to my center and spring of life, wraps my existence about you – and, kindling in pure, powerful flame, fuses you and me in one.”

Bridebook.co.uk- couple saying their vows in a beautiful church — By Raw Silk Photography

1 Corinthian 13 (Church of England)

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Bridebook.co.uk- bride and groom signing the register with the priest — By Ten Twenty One Photography

3) Time In A Bottle by Jim Croce (song)

“If I could save time in a bottle, the first thing that I’d like to do, is to save every day ‘till eternity passes away, just to spend them with you. If I could make days last forever; if words could make wishes come true; I’d save every day like a treasure and then, again, I would spend them with you. If I had a box just for wishes, and dreams that had never come true; the box would be empty, except for the memory of how they were answered by you. But there never seems to be enough time to do the things you want to do, once you find them. I’ve looked around enough to know that you’re the one I want to go through time with.”

Bridebook.co.uk- bridesmaids reading from the order of service — By Simon Biffen Photography

The Seven Benedictions The Sheva Brachot (Jewish)

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, King of the Universe, Creator of the fruit of the vine.

Blessed are You, Adonai, our God, King of the universe, Who has created everything for your glory.

Blessed are You, Adonai, our God, King of the universe, Creator of Human Beings.

Blessed are You, Adonai, our God, King of the universe, Who has fashioned human beings in your image, according to your likeness and has fashioned from it a lasting mold. Blessed are You Adonai, Creator of Human Beings.

Bring intense joy and exultation to the barren one (Jerusalem) through the ingathering of her children amidst her in gladness. Blessed are You, Adonai, Who gladdens Zion through her children.

Gladden the beloved companions as You gladdened Your creatures in the garden of Eden. Blessed are You, Adonai, Who gladdens groom and bride.

Blessed are You, Adonai, our God, King of the universe, Who created joy and gladness, groom and bride, mirth, glad song, pleasure, delight, love, brotherhood, peace, and companionship. Adonai, our God, let there soon be heard in the cities of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem the sound of joy and the sound of gladness, the voice of the groom and the voice of the bride, the sound of the grooms’ jubilance from their canopies and of the youths from their song-filled feasts. Blessed are You Who causes the groom to rejoice with his bride.

Bridebook.co.uk- jewish wedding — By David Pullum Photography

Saptapadi (Hindu)

Now let us make a vow together. We shall share love, share the same food, share our strengths, share the same tastes. We shall be of one mind, we shall observe the vows together. I shall be the Samaveda, you the Rigveda, I shall be the Upper World, you the Earth; I shall be the Sukhilam, you the Holder – together we shall live and beget children, and other riches; come thou, O sweet-worded girl!

An Insider’s Guide to a Deliciously Healthy & Happy Engagement

Alongside our free wedding planning tools, we also bring you expert advice from the industry’s creme de la creme. We were super lucky to chat to Ella Woodward – aka Deliciously Ella! The biggest food blogger of the moment and bride to be. She gives us her tips on feeling good on the wedding run up.

What can be achieved by eating and cooking in the Deliciously Ella way? (What are example dishes for breakfast, snacks, pudding etc)

Eating and cooking like this has really helped me be my healthiest and happiest and hopefully it can help others too! My favourite foods at the moment are smashed avocado on rye toast with lots of lemon, black pepper and chili; pasta arrabbiata and warming bowls of porridge with nut butter and berries, I also love the oaty banana breakfast bars and Chocolate Ganache Cake from the Mae Deli, the deli my fiancé and I recently opened.

How far in advance of your wedding should you start your healthy eating regime?

We try to make sure healthy eating is more of a lifestyle for us than a short spanned diet so I’m not sure, but recently I realised my wedding was not long away at all so booked in some of my favourite classes like yoga and boxing to get myself feeling really great!

What can you do 9 months in advance?

Look forward to your wedding! And if you want to make changes to your diet, then start introducing more fruit and veg and cutting back on refined sugar.

What can you do 4 months in advance?

Maybe eating all the foods that you know make you feel amazing. Lots of green and colourful vegetables! And like above, book in some of your favourite works outs or try to get to the gym a few times a week.

What would you recommend eating the night before and the morning of the big day? (to be glowing / no bloating etc)?

We have a rehearsal dinner the night before our wedding, so no doubt I’ll be eating lots of lovely food! But I think to try and help with those things maybe a warm vegetable salad for dinner and a smoothie, chia pudding or avocado on toast for breakfast, and lots of small snacks on hand so you don’t get exhausted.

Where and when are you getting married? What part of the day are you most excited about?

We’re getting married in April in the Caribbean, and to be honest I’m excited for all of it – I’m sure it will be amazing.

Happy Planning!

Moët & Chandon’s Guide To Champagne Celebrations

Weddings are one of the most emotive and memorable moments – the ultimate champagne celebration. With exquisite taste, a rich heritage and a spirit of glamorous spontaneity champagne promises one stylish celebration… let your champagne choice reflect your personality with Moët & Chandon’s bridal guide to champagne.

The Classic Bride

With a classic style your celebration is traditional without being stale. Drawing inspiration from icons including Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn and the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton you want your guests to raise a toast at your wedding reception that conveys quality.

Your aim is to celebrate in style with a wedding reception filled with glamourous guests sipping champagne out of coupes and dancing the night away to romantic tunes. For a sophisticated touch of glamour à la Marilyn Monroe serve the iconic Moët Impérial perfectly chilled at 8-9°C.

Founded in 1743 and a favourite of Madame Pompadour, Moët & Chandon quickly became an icon of elegance and quality – grapes are still handpicked to this date, yeast carefully selected for fermentation and the wine gracefully aged in the House’s legendary cellars. Granted the Royal Warrant by Queen Victoria 1893 and again by HM Queen Elizabeth II in 1955 Moët & Chandon will subtly convey your taste for quality and celebration.

The Princess Bride

A true romantic at heart you want a fairy tale wedding! You’re madly in love and you want the world to know it. Drawing inspiration from heroines such as Snow White and Belle, you dream of floating down an aisle of pink and white petals. Ready to enchant your guests with twinkling lights and a majestic ceremony arch you envision a bold celebration.

Rosé is the champagne for you – osé actually means daring in French and the style is associated with extravagant expressions of sentiment. Moët Rosé Impérial is a spontaneous and radiant expression of the Moët & Chandon style.

Distinguished by its bright fruitiness, enticing palate and elegant maturity the Moët Rosé Impérial is aged for a minimum of 24 months in the cellars resulting in an intense and supple finish. Dating back to the days of Napoleon who ordered 100 bottles of the House’s ‘Roze’ the tradition pink celebration continues to this day and your guests will be left with a rose tinted memory of your big day.

The Vintage Bride

Pearls, lace and vintage chic bridesmaid dresses are on your Pinterest Wedding board! What’s old is new again with this romantic wedding style. Gliding down the aisle in a lace dress exuding vintage glamour and sophistication in spades you want your guests to experience a taste of the past – a contemporary classic!

The ultimate expression of the Moët & Chandon style is the Grand Vintage. Masterfully crafted by winemaker Benoit Gouez the wine has aged for a minimum of 3 years and is only produced in years when conditions are ideal. Moët & Chandon is about to release the Grand Vintage Rosé 2008 carrying complex ripe berry fruit aromas with a long, silky finish that carry the flavours at each taste. The long cellar aging and miniscule bubbles are a hallmark of the supreme quality of the champagne.

Every detail of your wedding has been planned to perfection – the flowers, the table décor not to mention the invitation list. Having hand-picked your closest family and friends your guests are in for a real treat.

The Boho Bride

You don’t follow trends – you set them! You have no nostalgia for the past and want your wedding to be in the NOW. For a sleek and stylish celebration you draw inspiration from travels, art and your style icons of choice including reveller Kate Moss.

First to spot a trend your perfect champagne is the Moët Ice Imperial also available in rosé. Evoking the spirit of the French Riviera you envision a stylish celebration with spontaneous fun and a refreshing culinary discovery for your guests. Inspired by the Piscine cocktail (famously from the French Riviera) Moët Ice Imperial and Moët Ice Imperial Rosé have a heavier composition. 3 ice cubes perfectly dilute the champagne to bring out a vibrant flavour which stays fresh for longer.

For a spontaneous twist add strawberry or mint to the mix for a champagne cocktail that matches your adventurous personality. A fun loving and carefree bride you want celebrations to last well into the night before you sail away with your beau sipping leaving your guests to describe your wedding as the coolest party ever.

Bonus! Top Tips From Moet & Chandon

Play with bottle sizes! The Moët range is available in several formats including Mini (20cl), Magnum (3L) and Jeroboam (6L).
Select the right glassware. Coupes are enjoying a comeback but bubbles will be lost quicker compared to a flute. A new trend is the tulip glass that slows down the loss of CO2 but also looks stylishly modern.

Happy Planning!

Ready to find the perfect suppliers for your dream wedding? Search through all of the U.K’s best venues and suppliers by what matters most to you on Bridebook today! Just check out our state-of-the-art supplier search tool.

Jimmy Choo’s Guide to the Wonderful World of Wedding Shoes

Written by Jimmy Choo

Jimmy Choo are a fashion house and regarded as experts in luxury shoes and wedding shoe designs. View Jimmy Choo’s full author bio.

bridebook.co.uk collage of four wedding shoes — Check us out on Pinterest!

Here at Bridebook, the world’s leading free online wedding planner, we pride ourselves in bringing our brides-to-be the advice they need from experts they want – and who better to guide us through the wonderful world of wedding shoes than the one and only Jimmy Choo!

We all know that the wedding dress traditionally gets the most attention pre and post-wedding. However, with Jimmy Choo offering a wardrobe of exquisite styles from traditional elegance to Hollywood glamour the shoes are no longer a second thought.

Jimmy Choo has long been the go-to shoe to accompany brides down the aisle and below is an overview of what makes the Jimmy Choo Bridal offering exceptional.

Already have your shoes sorted? Why not check out Bridebook’s Q & A with legendary dress designer Phillipa Lepley for all the best dress tips, or Jo Malone’s guide to scenting your wedding? Bridebook has every detail covered!

Couture detailing:

2016 is the year to embrace couture detailing in your wedding shoes. Yes, classic is always beautiful and satin will never cease to embody the timeless bridal look. However, who can resist upping the style notch a little? Think an array of ethereal feathers, Swarovski crystals, lace, beading and glitter finishes for the perfect pair of statement, but complimentary, bridal shoes.

bridebook.co.uk-jimmy-choo-couture-details

Loving these Jimmy Choo shoes? Book a bridal consultation through Jimmy Choo’s Bridebook profile!

Personalised shoes:

For brides looking for something exceptional, personalisation goes a long way in turning your wedding shoes into the ultimate keep-sake. Jimmy Choo’s Made-to-Order bridal shoes can incorporate monogram brass initials (perfect for you and your wedding party), or even a number plaque on the sole of each shoe to commemorate the wedding date.

bridebook.co.uk-jimmy-cho-personalised-shoe

Shoe Colouring Service:

What if you find your perfect bridal shoe but it just doesn’t quite go with your dress? Not a problem! Jimmy Choo offers a special shoe re-colouring service to let you match it perfectly to your dress. Even better, re-colouring the shoe after the ceremony ensures the newly-wed can wear the shoes again.

bridebook.co.uk-jimmy-choo-shoe-recolouring

Check out all of the best bridal boutiques in your area using Bridebook’s innovative new supplier search!

New styles:

Finally, you can now capture the essential bridal shoe style without the classic, and sometimes inconvenient, heel. New styles see stunning sandals, pumps and flats stand on their own as an equally as gorgeous option no matter what your shoe preference is.

Want more of Bridebook’s amazing wedding day inspiration?

Book a bridal shoe fitting through Jimmy Choo’s Bridebook profile.
Make sure your dream shoes fit in your budget with Bridebook’s state of the art budget calculator.

Be blown away by Bridebook’s incredible real wedding selection – just like Natasha and Charles’ stunning summer wedding!
Download the app!

The Flying Bride

Bridebook.co.uk is the world’s first free online wedding planner! We spend our days helping thousands of brides plan the wedding day of their dreams! Couples can expertly manage their ideas, budget, checklist and guest list as well as browse every supplier and service they might need, from venues to florists, in one convenient place – and best of all? It’s absolutely free!

bridebook.co.uk-flying-bride-2 — See the video of Chirine flying down the aisle below! @chirine.sabaiti

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No – It’s a Bride! The award for most inventive wedding arrival has to go to newlywed Chirine Sabaiti Mahmassani. As if a wedding set in a beautiful 15th century venue in Florence, Italy didn’t have enough of the wow factor, Chirine took things to a whole new level when she decided to surprise her wedding guests by flying, yes FLYING, into her own wedding using 250 giant helium balloons – all thanks to the incredibly inventive Molecule Show! #superbride Chirine may have to join the likes of Mary Berry, Jimmy Choo and Bobbi Brown in our exclusive line-up of wedding advice experts as our Queen of Aviation because we’ve never seen something like this before! Here at Bridebook.co.uk, we love making the impossible possible so when we saw the Flying Bride, we knew we had to track her down! We had a chat with Chirine to hear more about her spectacular arrival.

bridebook.co.uk-flying-bride-3 — @chirine.sabaiti

Bridebook.co.uk: How did you come up with the idea for your arrival?

I am an extreme sports enthusiast and wanted my entrance to reflect my personality! Initially, I was asking about paragliding in or even sky diving in but due to the tall trees surrounding the venue, we had limitations in doing so. Urging my wedding planner, Silvia from SposiamoVi, to check what options were available, she told me about a show by Molecole where the dancer flies by balloons and sent me a video. Obviously I thought it was beautiful and exciting so I asked her to check if it was possible as it had never been done at a wedding before. I did not do a trial. The first time I did was at the entrance of my wedding which was super exciting for me! My mom was praying while I was up there!

Bridebook.co.uk: How did you feel up there? What were you most nervous about?

It felt unreal! It was so peaceful and all the nerves I had while getting dressed went away as soon as I got in the air. I am most at peace and happy when I fly or do some kind of sport in the air. I honestly was not nervous at all about the entrance or balloons, I was excited!

bridebook.co.uk-flying-bride-6 — Check out ‘Balloon Cam’ below!

Bridebook.co.uk: What was the theme of your wedding and what were your favourite moments and memories?

I wanted it to be chic yet rustic casual and definitely artistic. I wanted every detail of the decor to reflect our personality. My favourite moment was definitely flying at the entrance and seeing my husband and all my loved ones looking up at me in the sky. It was beautiful! So many memories to count – my sister’s speech, walking down the aisle with my dad and sisters, getting ready with my mom, my first dance with my husband and him singing his favourite song by João Gilberto!

Bridebook.co.uk: What would be your advice to other brides planning their weddings?

Have your wedding reflect you and your husband’s personality in some way. It is your day and you should feel on top of the world!

bridebook.co.uk-flying-bride-8 — Follow more of @chirinis adventures on instagram!

Thank you so much to Chirine for sharing her incredible wedding… Check out @chirinis on instagram to catch up on what she’s been up to since her epic wedding! Bridebook.co.uk’s mission is to help you make your dream wedding possible. When you need a break from editing your guest list and finalising your budget using our online tools why not check out some great, slightly more down to earth, tips for wowing your wedding guests from our wedding expert, Bridal Musings. ( Or get some more real wedding inspiration here!)

Are you planning on doing anything as daring as Chirine at your wedding? Let us know in the comments below. We’re on a worldwide search for the greatest wedding ideas and the most incredible suppliers to make thousands of Brides dreams come true! Share your love with #flyingbride!

Balloon Cam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfVaA85HWc0

The Flying Bride

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COkmJOfpHLM

Let Wedding experts like Etsy and Deliciously Ella help make your big day absolutely flawless at Bridebook.co.uk:

Press: For more information please contact press@bridebook.co.uk

Credit:

Photography by Daniele Borghello & Daniele Veneri for Morlotti Studio Venice
Mail: venice@morlotti.com

Wedding planned by Silvia and Alice for Sposiamovi

Mail: hello@sposiamovi.it

Molecole show, Vincenzo D’Ascanio – Floral Design, Marco Abba- Videographer, Il Salviatino – Venue

River Cottage’s Top Tips on Choosing Your Perfect Wedding Menu

Written by River Cottage

River Cottage was founded by TV chef High Fearnley-Whittingstall and are considered experts in the food industry, with a range of food TV series, cookery courses, restaurants and food events.

Bridebook.co.uk river cottage wedding menu tips collage

River Cottage has given millions of TV viewers a taste for great cooking since 1998, when Hugh first brought his famous food ethos to Channel 4. Our hard-hitting campaigns have changed the eating habits of a nation and improved the welfare and sustainability of animals and fish.

River Cottage HQ, found on the Devon and Dorset border, is home to everything we do and is the base for our Cookery and Chefs’ School, unique dining experiences and wedding celebrations.

Bridebook.co.uk summer fruits wedding cake

We aim to teach and inspire people to grow, source and cook food in ways that enhance their lives, increase their well-being, and connect them more closely to natural, sustainable and ethical sources of food.

Head Chef, Gelf Alderson runs the busy kitchens and Cookery School at River Cottage HQ. Here are his top tips to help you choose your perfect wedding menu:

Your Favourite Foods

Don’t try and please other people too much! Never forget that it’s your special day and no one else’s. Make sure your favourite foods are featured, at River Cottage we design each wedding menu with the couple and when they can’t agree on a certain item we just put both on the menu.

Bridebook.co.uk perfect meat platter for a casual country wedding

Add Some Theatre

Have some sharing plates or a little theatre involved in your menu. We have lovely outdoor cooking areas on the farm including our wood fired pizza oven which guest can gather around and design their own pizzas with the chefs. It helps raise the atmosphere and connect the guests with their location, and having lots of dishes down the table to share gives your guest who don’t know each other a convenient ice breaker creating a lovely buzz at the table.

Bridebook.co.uk freshly baked pizza for wedding guests

Include Something Different

Put a good amount of trust in the chef designing the menu with you but also don’t be afraid to ask for the unusual! At River Cottage we have an incredibly talented brigade of chefs with a multitude of experience. Although we specialise in local organic food, if you fancy something more unusual they can recreate more exotic food with ingredients from our own gardens, British food is a lot more versatile and exiting than people sometimes think.

Bridebook.co.uk pear and meringue desserts for a wedding

A Good Start

The food on arrival is essential not only are people starting to get hungry after the ceremony but it really sets the mood. Although traditional canapes can fit the day sometimes it’s nice to break the mould by getting the BBQs fired up or having a more refined afternoon tea, giving everyone plenty of energy for the wellie wanging and afternoon games!

Bridebook.co.uk homemade dips and bread for wedding snacks

Late Night Feasts

Don’t forget to have something planned for the evening, it doesn’t need to be too involved but your guests will need something to keep them going. From wood fired pizzas to a slow cooked hog roast with soft organic rolls you can have a really memorable end to your special day.

Bridebook.co.uk freshly baked scones go down a treat

Want some of this gorgeous food at your own wedding? River Cottage is fully licensed to hold weddings and is (if you ask us) one of the most perfect venues for a beautiful country wedding!

River Cottage HQ – Your Perfect Country Wedding Venue

Tie the knot and celebrate one of the best days of your life at Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s iconic River Cottage HQ, based in 65 acres of organic farmland and just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Jurassic Coast. River Cottage is a unique wedding venue where the bride and groom share centre stage with the food. Couples design their menu with the River Cottage chefs, using the finest home grown, local and seasonal ingredients to wow their guests.

Bridebook.co.uk chefs in action prepping the wedding meal

Fully licensed to conduct civil ceremonies and partnerships, couples can get hitched in Hugh’s famous farmhouse, beautifully refurbished barn with breath-taking views across the Axe Valley or walled garden.

The barn is a glorious space any time of the year and can seat 70 people across two long banquet tables. During the summer months a further 30 can dine on the adjoining covered decking area. In the evening with tables cleared the maximum capacity is 120 with plenty of room to dance the night away.

Bridebook.co.uk gorgeous barn wedding in Devon

The walled garden is a gorgeous, tranquil environment for a blessing which takes place underneath a hazel arch woven in climbing sweet peas whilst guests sit on benches and straw bales to watch the happy couple.

Bridebook.co.uk gorgeous summer garden wedding

Have you fallen in love with the gorgeous River Cottage as much as we have? Be sure to check out their Bridebook profile and enquire today!

Take advantage of all of Bridebook’s amazing free wedding planning tools today!

Shortlist and book all of your favourite suppliers in one place

Stay on track with our live checklist

Keep your wallet happy with our state of the art budgeting tool

Add your nearest and dearest to your guestlist

Spotify’s Top 10 First Dance Songs

bridebook.co.uk - first dance wedding — Photo courtesy of Jana Williams Photography

After analysing thousands of playlists titled ‘First Dance’, Spotify has identified the most popular first dance songs in the U.K. And the best part? They have shared it with Bridebook and all our lovely couples planning their perfect wedding day.

Check out their mix of swoon-worthy classics if you need a little song-spiration or just want to listen to some romantic tunes as you plan.

Happy listening!

Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud

Etta James – At Last

John Legend – All of Me

Lonestar – Amazed

Jack Johnson – Better Together

Al Green – Let’s Stay Together

Christina Perri – A Thousand Years

Adele – Make You Feel My Love

Jason Mraz – I’m Yours

The Goo Goo Dolls – Iris

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Jo Malone London on Scenting Your Wedding Day

Written by Jo Malone London

Jo Malone London are at the forefront of perfumery, curating collaborations between London’s leading creative talent and world-renowned master perfumers, thereby offering bespoke luxury fragrances immersed in the modern British culture.

When planning a wedding, one is always keeping in mind the whole picture – from matching your stationery, to your flowers, to your dress, to your venue, to your everything, we know you brides have it down to a tee. But why limit yourself to just one of the senses?

Bridebook was lucky enough to partner with Jo Malone London, the British scent powerhouse, to learn the best ways to up the wedding game with scent – from pre-wedding pampering, to picking the perfect scent for your venue, read on to hear what Jo Malone London has to share on perfecting the scent element to your wedding. Enjoy!

www.bridebook.co.uk-jo-malone — All photos courtesy of Jo Malone London

The Night Before

Here at Jo Malone London we know that in the lead up to your wedding day, there are many different elements that the bride and groom have to consider. Firstly though – a moment for you! This is going to be a busy day and the best way to start is with a peaceful and pampering session. Take an indulgent bath infused with our Red Roses Bath Oil. Follow with a rich Body Crème such as Blackberry & Bay or Nectarine Blossom & Honey.

The Body Crème will help hold your fragrance, leaving a trail of your scent throughout the day. Then accessorise and layer with your favourite Jo Malone London scent. This fragrance can reflect your personality or capture a special moment and what could be more special than your wedding.

Style Your Scent

Choosing a fragrance to suit your dress is also something to consider. Depending on the season you may have a different kind of dress design; something more structured in the winter or more floaty and light in the summer.

Your scent can change to work with both and perfectly fit the atmosphere. Chiffon dresses are light and airy so something like English Pear & Freesia with Wild Bluebell creates a cool floral fragrance, dewy with wild flowers and a fruity pear note.

Peony & Blush Suede was inspired by the Cecil Beaton era and the English Ballroom with romance and fashion – this would be the perfect scent for a satin gown. It’s an opulent and flirtatious scent that fits with this aesthetic.

His & Her Pairing

Lots of brides and grooms do like to complement each other on their wedding day with their fragrances. All of our boutiques offer a complimentary wedding consultation service where our wedding stylists can help with combining signature scents for both bride and groom, as well as other members of the bridal party.

A wonderful bridal scent is Orange Blossom. A traditional bloom in floral bouquets, Orange Blossom is a symbol for good fortune and happiness for a newly-wedded couple. Alternatively, and perhaps more unusual, is the combination of Peony & Blush Suede with Red Roses. Like a freshly cut bouquet the voluptuous blend of seven exquisite roses adds modern romance with a clean and surprisingly fresh lift.

All of these fragrance combinations will interlace perfectly with the groom’s more masculine Amber & Lavender. Together these offer a clean and aromatic fragrance combined with a floral freshness – the perfect match.

The Complete Sensorial Experience

It is nice to think of all of the fragrances, from your personal scent, to the venue and location together. They should go together but not be the same necessarily. For the venue think about the mood you want to create. I.e. an English countryside wedding can be emphasised with vibrant and verdant Blackberry & Bay.

Scented candles add touches of style to the aisle, tables and reception space, and create an aroma to envelop the guests, for a lasting memory. The flicker of Orange Blossom candles scattered around the ceremony venue is incredibly romantic and enchanting. Seated for the speeches, surprise guests with a hand-bowed Travel Candle or Bath Oil; a thoughtful touch for them to take home.

To complete the sensorial experience at your wedding, lightly spritz a linen spray over napkins and the table cloth to lift the scent of the candles and floral arrangements.

About Jo Malone

At Jo Malone London we orchestrate a world of bespoke luxury and fragrance that is immersed in the modern British culture. By curating collaborations between world-renowned master perfumers and London’s leading creative talent, we are enduringly at the forefront of perfumery.

At Jo Malone London our signature is elegantly simple allowing you to recognise the ingredients within the fragrance; our scents are transparent and modern.

Fragrance combining is a key part of our philosophy, allowing each customer to find a fragrance combination unique to them. This can be through layering bath and body products with fragrance or spritzing two different colognes; it’s a personal choice for each individual.

Happy Planning!

Harrods’ 6 Gifts You’d Never Think Of Adding To Your List

Now, we love a practical gift list just as much as the next person, but sometimes you can’t help but throw in one or two indulgent pieces. Harrods’ Gift Bureau is helping us all out by giving some seriously swoon-worthy gift ideas that will completely transform your wedding gift list from ‘the usual’ to ‘the extraordinary’. And who knows, maybe you have a long lost uncle who just needs an excuse to splash some cash on you…

Christofle Mood Cutlery Egg

This is a more modern and functional way for the style conscious couple to store their cutlery. More and more young couples are steering away from the classic wooden casket and opting for this fun and functional piece that will last you a lifetime. Price from £750.

Fornasseti Plates

Again, the younger generation getting married is stepping away from the traditional floral china and starting to collect and add unique pieces that really reflect their personality and style. Fornasseti is a great example of this, perfect for the quirky couple. Plates from £115.

Lorenzo Quinn Artwork

Art work is now becoming an even more popular gift that will continue to hold value and be a joy to own throughout your marriage for years to come. The gorgeous sculptural pieces from Lorenzo Quinn are continuously popular. With prices starting at £1,500 upwards, you can always have family and friends contribute together to buy pieces like these.

Jura Smart Connect Coffee Machine

This is the most functional and unusual item on the list, but the top quality coffee machines by Jura have truly revolutionised the way you can drink your tea and coffee. With the Z6 Carbon machine one can make coffee while sitting on the sofa or in bed using your smart phone. An amazing and fun piece especially on a lazy Sunday! And don’t forget the smart kettle so that you can boil your cuppa before you get home and create the temperature you wish to keep it at. From £99.95.

Gold Bullion

The Harrods Bank and Gold Bullion, located next to our Gift Bureau, have these gorgeous small gold pieces and unique collectables that would add real character to your gift list. Again, this is a piece to have and hold forever and would be a perfect future heirloom.

Abercrombie & Kent Honeymoon

This is an increasingly popular gift, and rightly so! It allows family and friends to contribute towards your honeymoon of a lifetime, organised by Harrods partners Abercrombie and Kent. Tailoring the most amazing and unusual vacations you can think of, perfectly tailored to you as a couple.

Dying to get your hands on some of these items? Check out the Gift Bureau at Harrods in store or online here!

Happy Planning! For more gift inspiration have a read of The Wedding Shop’s ultimate gift guide here.

All Your Wedding Wine Questions Answered, by The Ritz

Brides and grooms to be can be forgiven for getting a little carried away focusing on their wedding breakfast menu and forgetting about the all important wine. And rightly so! If you’re not already a wine buff, it can be awfully confusing and there is just so much to choose from meaning you don’t even know where to start. But luckily for us, our wonderful partners at The Ritz London, one of the most beautiful wedding venues in London, has shared with us their sommelier, Giovanni Ferlito’s expertise to help us navigate the incredible world of wines. Read this Q&A to get every question you have about picking your wedding wine answered!

Q: Choosing wine can seem daunting, how do you recommend a couple prepares for the selection process? And how far in advance of their wedding should a couple begin their wine selection?

Selecting the wines for the wedding should be an enjoyable moment of the preparations.

The best thing to do is to ask the sommelier of your venue (if it has one) for recommendations and to taste the wines in advance, possibly during the menu tasting to test if the pairings work well.

There is no need to be too fussy and for the wine choices to be too complicated, try rather to think about a wine that can be easily enjoyed by everyone during the wedding.

I would recommend to choose the wines when the menu is already decided in order to select wines that could easily match the menu without overpowering the dishes or being too light.

Normally I would choose a white wine to start and a red wine for the main course and if there is also a middle course why not to try an orange wine or an oloroso sherry to spice up the selection!

Q: What is the usual process when helping couples select their wedding wine?

First of all I will ask the couple if they know what their guests would normally like to drink to start to have an idea of what could be a good recommendation.

Then I will look at the menu and discuss it with the couple to find together a few options that could work. During the menu tasting I will let them sample the pre-selected wines and decide together the final choice as the balance of the wine pairing is, for me the most important factor.

Finally, it is important to respect the wedding budget and normally (unless there are a lot of wine lovers amongst the guests) I wouldn’t suggest to go crazy with selecting very fine wines. I would rather focus on picking the right wine and trying to please everyone.

Q: What should a couple consider when choosing a wine/champagne for the toast?

Prosecco is always a smart choice considering the price and it is a good option thanks to its freshness and fruity character. Why not to twist it with some Aperol, ice cubes, soda water and an orange slice to serve it as a Spritz, the Classic Italian aperitif!

English sparkling wines are doing extremely well and my favourites are Nyetimber for a crisp, elegant style and Gusbourne for a more rich, round style. I have just this month introduced them on The Ritz wine list for the first time in the 110 year history of the hotel.

And of course champagne is a classic and still my favourite!
Choose a non-vintage for crispness and fresh fruit notes or a vintage for more length, complexity and nutty finish.

Finally have you ever considered a Demi Sec Champagne? It’s slightly sweet on the finish, perfect perhaps to be served with the cake. A true treat fitting for the occasion.

Q: Could you guide couples on the essential factors in choosing wines to pair with their menu?

One of the most important factors to consider is the richness of the dish as we want the dish and the wine to have the same weight. It is very important to find the right balance as the wine could overpower the dish or be too flat. For example a light and delicate dish needs a light wine with a subtle taste while a rich and intense dish needs a full body wine with a strong backbone.

It is also important that the ingredients of the dish also match the aroma and flavours of the wine and just as with any food pairing, it helps to think of either complementary or contrasting flavors.

Personally I am a big fan of red wine with fish. I think it is a very interesting pairing as long as the red is delicate, light and with very soft tannins. If served slightly cooler, even better.

The perfect one would be a German or Alsatian Pinot Noir.

Just be careful with spicy food… my recommendation is to balance the spiciness up with an aromatic and slightly sweet Riesling or Gewurztraminer.

Q: Do you have any creative ideas for making your wine selection special and not just about taste?

A wine pairing for me is the best way to travel around the fascinating world of wine. The wine selection should be an interesting wine discovery with wines made from different grapes from different country.

Try also to explore less known styles or wine regions, such as orange wines from Georgia, Palo Cortado Sherry or crisp white wines from Portugal.

To make the experience even more interesting I would use different format and also glasses with all different shapes obviously according to the wine.

All in all, the wine pairing is a wonderful opportunity to give your meal a little personality! If one of you is from a wine region, including one of those wines in the meal can be a very nice touch.

Q: What are the best wines to go with cheese or dessert?

Sweet wines!

The savoury and cream character of some soft or blue cheese works perfectly well with a dessert wine as the residual sugar will balance the saltiness while the acidity will cut through the creaminess.

Q: How should couples alter their wine taste and choice according to the season of their wedding?

Seasonality is very important and this is another reason why it is better to choose the wine after you’ve decided on your wedding menu as it should also reflect the season.

Q: Could you explain any considerations a bride and groom should have on the timing of the wine serving?

I would always recommend to start from white wine and then move to red wine and also in crescendo from a lighter to a stronger style. Between white and red I could possibly suggest a rose or an orange wine. Once on a red wine, I wouldn’t recommend to go back to a white wine. After the red I would either serve a sweet dessert wine of a fortified wine such as a Port.

Q: Which wines does your dream wedding wine list consist of?

All of these wines are not only delicious and versatile, but also provide enough variety to keep things interesting.

Purity Billecart-Salmon Rose NV – Vallée de la Marne, Champagne

Freshness Riesling Kabinett Sharzhofberger, Egon Müller 2012 – Mosel, Germany

Complexity Tsitska, Lagvinari 2013 – Imereti, Georgia

Elegance Gevrey-Chambertin, Philippe Pacalet 2011 – Burgundy, France

Delicacy Passito di Pantelleria “Ben Ryé” 2013, Donnafugata – Sicily, Italy

Q: What has been your favourite wedding experience?

At my wedding when I opened a bottle of Champagne with the classic Sabrage!

Sabrage is a technique for opening a champagne bottle with a saber used for ceremonial occasions. This became popular in France after the spectacular victories across all Europe the cavalry of Napoleon which gave them plenty of reason to celebrate.

Q: If you were a wine which would you be?

I would be a seductive Pinot Noir from Côte de Nuit, Burgundy.

Pure, elegant, fresh, with raspberry and cherry notes and a vibrant rose petal and spice finish…

Happy Planning!

Take advantage of all of Bridebook’s amazing free wedding planning tools today!

Shortlist and book all of your favourite suppliers in one place

Stay on track with our live checklist

Keep your wallet happy with our state of the art budgeting tool

Add your nearest and dearest to your guestlist

Pol Roger’s 3 Step Guide to Serving Champagne at Your Wedding

Written by Pol Roger

Pol Roger is regarded as an expert in the champagne industry, having been a champagne producer for over 150 years and currently producing over 110,000 cases of champagne annually.

No one put champagne better than the late Sir Winston Churchill: “In defeat I need it, in victory I deserve it.” – and we are sure that Churchill would agree with us that when you’re planning your wedding you always deserve it!

As much as you will enjoy guzzling the bubbly throughout your engagement, we have asked the esteemed Champagne Pol Roger to guide us through some of the ins and outs of incorporating champagne in your nuptials.

Having been producing exceptional champagne for over 165 years, holding an unrivalled reputation for quality, and being the champagne of choice for the royal wedding – it is needless to say that Pol Roger knows what they’re talking about!

bridebook.co.uk-pol-roger-bottle-and-glasses — Courtesy of Pol Roger

The Proposal

The proposal is the ideal moment to splurge on that flawless glass of bubbly, as you celebrate the journey the two of you have just embarked on. To emulate our greatest exponent, Sir Winston Churchill, the Vintage Champagne is the right choice for this ‘victory’.

Vintage champagnes, such as Pol Roger Brut Vintage 2006, are produced only when all the necessary components of climate, grape quality and ripeness at harvest come together for the winemaker to produce a wine of optimum intensity, structure and balance which will carry the distinctive character of the year.

It’s a classic and with a beautiful glass of bubbly in your hand, that private moment between you and your fiancee becomes extra special.

bridebook.co.uk-pol-roger-on-engagement-champagne-on-beach — Courtesy of Pol Roger

The Reception

Following the emotionally charged ceremony, a glass of cold, refreshing champagne is perfect for a reception. As this is when the canapes will be served, be sure to choose a champagne that has a freshness to it, but with sufficient backbone to be drunk with an array of foods.

Non-vintages, such Pol Roger Brut Reserve, are the perfect choice for the reception. Our apéritif champagne is the definitive house-style, composed from 30 still base wines drawn from at least two vintages, and the three varieties of Champagne, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier blended in equal portions.

The champagne is dominated by notes of stone fruits, rich nuttiness and a hint of honey supporting the freshness of the acidity.

bridebook.co.uk-pol-roger-wedding-reception-champagne-being-served — Courtesy of Pol Roger

The Toast

All too often the same champagne is served for the toast, as is used for the reception. However we recommend serving a champagne that has a slightly higher dosage, stands out to reflect this special moment in your wedding, and complements your cake perfectly.

You should look for champagnes such as the Pol Roger Rich, a demi-sec, that has a gentle sweetness of the wine, but is tempered by a refreshing acidity that cuts through to leave the palate cleansed – thus making it the perfect toast to serve with your sweet wedding cake.

bridebook.co.uk-pol-roger-in-ice-bucket-at-wedding — Courtesy of Pol Roger

The Excellence of Champagne Pol Roger

Maison Pol Roger owns 91 hectares of vineyards on prime sites in the Champagne region of France. The cellars run for 7km and are on three levels, the deepest known as the ‘cave de prise de mousse’ at 34m below street level.

As the name suggests this is where the wine undergoes its secondary fermentation in bottle. The fact that this deep cellar is at 9°C or less, rather than a normal cellar temperature of 11-12°C, prolongs this fermentation and contributes to the quality and particular style of the wines and their famously fine bubbles.

Happy Planning!

Other articles you may be interested in:

La Perla’s Guide to Gorgeous Wedding Lingerie

Written by La Perla

La Perla is a luxury fashion house with over 60 years of experience in the fashion industry, and regarded as experts in luxury women clothing including lingerie.

Everything that La Perla embodies aligns perfectly with the wonderful world of weddings: elegant, precious, and with just a hint of surprise.

Lingerie holds special meaning for every woman and luxury wedding lingerie is the perfect way to make that magic moment even more magical with amazing pieces that are just as special as the day itself.

So if you know you want to treat both yourself and your partner with some jaw-dropping lingerie, La Perla is here to get you finding the perfect pieces.

Bridebook.co.uk - lingerie la perla robe

The Lingerie Beneath the Dress

There are no fixed rules when it comes to choosing what to wear beneath your wedding dress. It’s the dress that steals the scene and generally it’s important that your lingerie is the same colour, preferably in smooth, lightweight fabrics, such as tulle.

Essential lines and a soft satin sheen characterise the bandeau bra and stretch silk briefs from the La Perla Silk Flair collection. The removable straps make this bra perfect under a dress with full décolleté.

The La Perla Shape Allure garments are for all those women who adore more romantic pieces. They have been made with special Lycra® Beauty yarn and Leavers lace inserts to create a seductive shaping effect.

Bridebook.co.uk wedding dress lingerie la perla — The smooth silk and removable straps make this piece perfect for your big day lingerie

The Contemporary Trousseau

The trousseau is an idea that has to be brought up-to-date with modern times and thought of as a set of precious garments that accompany the bride into a new stage of her life.

A truly elegant trousseau should always feature some matching lingerie and nightwear, like the coordinated pairings of lingerie and nightdresses and babydolls and robes created by La Perla.

A bride should treat herself to a La Perla Maison set, one of the iconic collections from the La Perla brand which combines the allure of silk satin with the sumptuousness of the floral embroidery that is hand finished using the Italian frastaglio technique.

Bridebook.co.uk la perla silk and lace lingerie — Keep your trousseau fun and flirty by picking pieces that mix materials and textures

Lingerie is a Girl’s Best Friend

A bridal shower is a truly special event, particularly for the bride’s friends. It is a chance for them to express their joy at sharing such an important time in her life.

It is also the perfect time for a gift from one woman to another; something special such as a slip, one of the most sensual and on-trend lingerie garments.

La Perla offers a wide range in fine Leavers lace with floral decoration, tulle which hides and reveals, and flowing silk satin. Something extra special: create an exclusive bridal wish list dedicated to your closest friends at a La Perla boutique.

Bridebook.co.uk la perla two piece with lace cutout — Look for pieces with modern designs and accents to add a sense of occasion

…Something blue

It’s always best to respect traditions, even if we are at the start of the third millennium. Creativity and a touch of elegance are essential. La Perla offers a jewelled garment to respect the “something blue” rule.

The La Perla Made to Measure suspender strap in silk satin can be personalised with gold hooks and a string of sapphires. A unique lucky charm that can be transformed into a bracelet for a precious keepsake from the big day.

Bridebook.co.uk La Perla made to measure strap — Don’t forget your something blue!

B for Bride, B for Bustier

Romantic, seductive and ultra-feminine. The bustier is one of those garments that all women should have in their wardrobe, and a true symbol of La Perla style. Every bride must have at least one bustier in her honeymoon suitcase.

What other garment is so versatile and ideally suited to creating a multitude of day and evening looks? Those who are truly romantic can choose an iconic model such as the La Perla Heritage bustier in Cluny lace with fine openwork, strings in silk satin and a front fastening with metal hooks that evoke a vintage feel.

True addicts that want to wear a bustier under their wedding dress have the special La Perla Frames model in transparent tulle which enhances the figure.

Bridebook.co.uk la perla bustier — There’s nothing more feminine than a gorgeous bustier like this one

Now it’s your turn to go our and pick your perfect set? Have you fallen in love with La Perla’s pieces? Be sure to check out their Bridebook profile and book a fitting today!

Take advantage of all of Bridebook’s amazing free wedding planning tools today!

Shortlist and book all of your favourite suppliers in one place

Stay on track with our live checklist

Keep your wallet happy with our state of the art budgeting tool

Add your nearest and dearest to your guestlist

Expert Guidance for Styling Your Dream Wedding

If you have a million exciting wedding styling ideas bouncing around your head or Pinterest board than this guide written by Melanie Helen from Cranberry Blue is for you! Your choice of wedding venue will undoubtedly set the tone and feel for your special day, but how you decide to decorate the space can be quite a daunting task. With so many resources available to help with this process, from the wonders of Pinterest to wedding magazines and blogs to name a few, the options available can be over-whelming and sometimes confusing. But not to worry! Below are Melanie’s top tips to make sure that your chosen look is kept harmonious throughout your wedding.

Bridebook.co.uk wedding styling — By Steven Brooks

The Venue

What overall feel would you like for your big day? Are you looking for a formal or more casual affair? Some venues naturally have a grander feel than others and I’m sure you will have chosen your venue with this in mind, however it will also have a big impact on the styling.
Consider the size of the room and existing style, colour scheme and furnishings of the event space itself, as whatever look you have in mind it needs to compliment the interior. All things are possible but to completely transform a room comes at a cost, and I personally prefer to work with the room and enhance the beautiful details that no doubt contributed towards you choosing the venue to begin with.

Bridebook.co.uk wedding aisle with flowers — By Pippa MacKenzie

Find out what the venue has available to you – see the crockery, glassware, furniture and table linen so you can decide if there is anything there you really don’t like and may wish to hire in.
If the venue is very plain, it can be used as a ‘blank’ canvas to work from which provides wonderful scope to do almost anything; it will however you will need a lot more decoration to give the wow factor, whereas a venue which is very opulent will require a lot less.

Use our Bridebook search tool to find your dream wedding venue.

Bridebook.co.uk Hedsor House dancefloor — By Pippa MacKenzie

The Details

Always ensure the height of the table decorations doesn’t interfere with people’s view across the table as it will be difficult for your guests to talk to one another. If you’re having some tall arrangements then be sure they are tall enough to avoid this. Also vary the height and size of them to create dimension and it keeps the eye moving throughout the room.
Think about lighting which can dramatically change the appearance and mood of a room. The difference between a good event and an incredible event can often be the use of clever lighting and it’s often over-looked. It can change as the day progresses, there by altering the mood and atmosphere and keeping things interesting.
Consider the furniture available – having stylish chairs for example makes a big difference to how a room looks believe it or not. If the venue’s chairs are unattractive then change the seat pad if you can to match your colour scheme or hire in a completely different chairs altogether.
To really add that finer touch, you may wish to hire special crockery or glassware that ties in with the look and feel for your day, even by using a pretty water glass for example or using a charger plate can transform how your tables look.

Bridebook.co.uk wedding crockery — By Gemma Watts from Pearl Pictures

Linen – again something that is so often over-looked. The venue or caterer may provide standard white linen, but there are so many other options available that may work better with the space and your desired look. Ensure the table cloths actually touch the floor and hide the table legs as this never looks very nice and lastly, ensure the cloths are pressed on the day once they’re laid to avoid the unsightly creases!
Candles – I’d say that in pretty much every venue, candles work well on every level. Even if you’re having a summer wedding and it will still be daylight during your meal, they still add a pretty twinkle to the tables, then as the light changes they really come into their own and create a warm, romantic look to the room. If you’re venue doesn’t allow real candles then there are some surprisingly good battery operated ones available too.

Bridebook.co.uk wedding candles — By Gill Flett

Be Smart

Think about your budget and what you wish to allocate to the different decorative elements. Flowers for example always cost more than you might think so it’s best to focus on the areas where you and your guests will spend the most amount of time, such as your wedding breakfast. For the ceremony, make a couple of big statements and then aim to move the arrangements elsewhere to re-use them but without your guests knowing.
The time of year is very important as the season will contribute towards the look of the day as it’s advisable to use flowers that are in season. The styling also isn’t just focused on how your ceremony and wedding breakfast looks, but extends to how your canapés and drinks are presented and even what you decide to choose.
Having the right colour palette to work with is key to successful styling. You don’t need to have lots of colours together; you can often create a stronger looks with varying tones of one colour alongside a highlight colour.

Bridebook.co.uk mossy wedding flowers — By Steven Brooks

Be Yourself

What is most important to you? If you’re having a grand celebration in a country house and you feel strongly about spending a lot on the flowers, then you may want to have large flower-heavy displays which could suit the venue, alternatively having a marquee wedding with a pretty, country look could involve using smaller and looser arrangements with English country garden flowers.
Don’t be seduced by trends – a lot of couples are keen to know what the latest trends are. While we do of course keep an eye on these, I always like to stress that it shouldn’t really matter if something’s on trend or not, it’s whether you both like and if they reflect your personal style as a couple.
Know when to stop – sometimes ‘more is more’ but often ‘less is more’! If you’ve decided on the look at all the elements that are required to bring it to life, then stop looking at Pinterest and adding things in just because as this often ends up spoiling the original vision.

Bridebook.co.uk subtle wedding table decorations — By Mike Garrard

Love Cranberry Blue’s gorgeous styling? You can book them as your wedding planners in just a couple of clicks with Bridebook – check out their profile today!

Happy Planning!

Take advantage of all of Bridebook’s amazing free wedding planning tools today!

Shortlist and book all of your favourite suppliers in one place

Stay on track with our live checklist

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Add your nearest and dearest to your guestlist

What’s the average cost of a wedding cake?

How much should you pay for a wedding cake?

Do bespoke wedding cakes cost more?

How many tiers does your wedding cake need?

What about novelty cakes?

Does the number of decorations affect the cost of a wedding cake?

What other factors can affect the cost of a wedding cake?

What else should you bear in mind?

What about dummy layers?

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

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Happy Planning!

1. The Importance of a Wedding Invitation

2. Designing Your Wedding Invitation

3. Wedding Invitation Etiquette

How long before a wedding should you send invitations?

What do I write on a wedding invitation?

Whose name goes first on a wedding invitation?

How much time do you give guests to RSVP to a wedding?

4. Trending Now: Wedding Invitation Trends for 2023

5. Budgeting for Your Invitations

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What Is Your Wedding Information Sheet For?

What Information Should You Include On Your Wedding Information Sheet?

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How does the pricing work?

What is the average cost of catering a wedding?

Is it cheaper per head the more guests there are?

How much does a wedding breakfast cost?

How much does an evening buffet cost?

What else can affect the cost of catering a wedding?

What about the alcohol?

Ready to plan your big day?

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Happy Planning!

A few wedding beauty tips:

Happy Planning!

Ready to book your make – up artist for your big day? Have a read of our useful article ‘15 Questions To Ask Your Make-Up Artist‘

Browse other similar articles:

How To Get Started With Your Groom’s Speech

How To Write Your Groom’s Speech

Preparing the Groom’s Speech

Delivering the Groom’s Speech

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The early bird gets the long weekend.

Wedding invitations that reflect your personal style.

Hens, I do.

Walk the aisle, then wine and dine.

Thank you and you and you.

What can be achieved by eating and cooking in the Deliciously Ella way? (What are example dishes for breakfast, snacks, pudding etc)

How far in advance of your wedding should you start your healthy eating regime?

What can you do 9 months in advance?

What can you do 4 months in advance?

What would you recommend eating the night before and the morning of the big day? (to be glowing / no bloating etc)?

Where and when are you getting married? What part of the day are you most excited about?

Happy Planning!

The Classic Bride

The Princess Bride

The Vintage Bride

The Boho Bride

Bonus! Top Tips From Moet & Chandon

Happy Planning!

Couture detailing:

Personalised shoes:

Shoe Colouring Service:

New styles:

Want more of Bridebook’s amazing wedding day inspiration?

Balloon Cam

The Flying Bride

Your Favourite Foods

Add Some Theatre

Include Something Different

A Good Start

Late Night Feasts

River Cottage HQ – Your Perfect Country Wedding Venue

Take advantage of all of Bridebook’s amazing free wedding planning tools today!

Happy listening!

The Night Before

Style Your Scent

His & Her Pairing