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Trying to decide what to wear to a wedding can be tricky. Thankfully, wedding dress codes can help you narrow down your wedding attire as a guest.
But what do they all mean? White tie, black tie, semi-formal, destination? Deciphering a wedding dress code can feel like navigating a maze.
Don’t worry — we’re here to help. Check out our ultimate guide to wedding dress codes. Read on to unpack the 13 most popular wedding dress codes. This includes options for female, male, and non-binary or gender-neutral guests. Ready to get started? Let’s jump in.
What is a wedding dress code?
Decoding wedding dress codes: the ultimate guide for wedding guests
A wedding dress code is the dress code guidelines that the nearly-weds would like their guests to follow. This can either be a recommendation, for example, ‘There are lots of cobblestones at our venue, so we recommend no high heels!’ or a more stringent request, for example, ‘Please wear black tie only.’
Following the dress code will ensure you fit in with the nearly-weds’ vision and match the aesthetics of the day. It will also make sure you feel comfortable and enjoy the celebration to the fullest.
Do I have to follow a wedding dress code?
You don’t have to, but it’s recommended. It’s a simple way to show your appreciation to the couple for inviting you and show that you want to contribute to their big day. It’s a small gesture, but it goes a long way. Plus, it’ll ensure you’re comfortable throughout the day.
The ultimate guide to wedding dress code
Ready to jump into the ultimate guide to wedding dress codes? Let’s get started.
White-tie
White-tie wedding clothing for guests is the fanciest of the fancy. It is formal, traditional, and usually reserved for the most sophisticated of occasions — perfect for a wedding.
White-tie ladies
Ladies’ white tie attire includes a full evening dress or evening gown, elbow-length gloves, heeled shoes, elegant jewellery, and a clutch bag. Your gloves should be a matching or complementary colour to your dress. Alternatively, you can never go wrong with white gloves.
White-tie men
Men should wear a black tailcoat with satin peak lapels, a waistcoat, a crisp white shirt, suit trousers, a bow tie, and a top hat. You should accessorise with cufflinks, a pocket square, and a pocket watch if you have one.
In terms of suit colour, stick to black. However, a very dark navy or purple may also be appropriate.
White-tie gender-neutral or non-binary
While traditional white-tie attire has been historically associated with specific gender norms, modern interpretations of formal dress codes are more inclusive.
A well-tailored suit is a great gender-neutral white-tie option. You could consider having a suit made and tailored to fit you perfectly and maintain an androgynous silhouette. This also means you have more freedom with the style and fabric. For example, you could pick a dark purple velvet or a suit lined with a beautiful pattern like paisley.
Black-tie
A black-tie dress code is a formal dress code a step down from white-tie. It’s associated with elegant, upscale weddings and other formal events.
Black-tie ladies
Ladies should wear a floor-length gown and heeled shoes for a black tie dress code. You can forgo gloves for black-tie. However, your outfit should convey a sense of formality and sophistication. You should accessorise with elegant jewellery and a clutch bag or wristlet.
Black-tie men
Men should wear a tailored tuxedo, black formal trousers, a crisp shirt, a bow tie, and a cummerbund in a complementary colour. You should accessorise with cufflinks and a pocket square.
Black-tie gender-neutral or non-binary
A tailored tuxedo is another solid choice for gender-neutral black tie attire. Choose a crisp shirt, a tailored suit jacket, a vest or cummerbund, tailored trousers, smart shoes, and polished accessories for a gender-neutral and formal outfit.
Formal or black-tie optional
Formal or black-tie optional is a dress code that gives guests more flexibility in what they wear to the big day. This dress code indicates that guests can wear black-tie if they choose. However, so long as they dress formally, they’ll fit in with the aesthetic of the day.
Formal or black-tie ladies
Ladies have the option to wear a full-length gown or a stylish cocktail dress. Accessories and jewellery should be classy, and you can opt for a low heel if you’d prefer. Fascinators or hats are also appropriate for formal or black-tie optional events.
Formal or black-tie men
Men can choose to wear a formal dark suit or take it up a notch with a classic black-tie ensemble. This includes a tuxedo, formal shirt, and optional accessories like a bow tie or cummerbund.
Formal or black-tie gender-neutral or non-binary
A tailored suit is a great option for formal or black tie optional events. However, you could also opt for a stylish jumpsuit, a classy wrap dress, or even well-coordinated separates like a flowy blouse and trousers. Keep accessories refined and sophisticated for a polished overall look. For example, dangling earrings, a long necklace, an antique pocket watch, or a clutch handbag are all great options to complete your look.
Cocktail
A cocktail dress code is a semi-formal style of dress typically chosen for events that fall between casual and formal. This dress code suggests a level of sophistication and style without the formality of black-tie attire.
The best thing about cocktail attire is that you can really have fun with it. You can dress in a brighter colour than you may have picked for black-tie, can include sparkles, or even use flashy fabrics like satin. This will add a touch of glamour to your look.
Cocktail ladies
Ladies have a ton of options for cocktail attire. From beautiful wrap dresses or a-line to a classic fit-and-flare, you really can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. We recommend choosing a knee length cocktail dress or midi dress to match the occasion and wearing heeled shoes.
Accessories can include statement earrings, a stylish belt, or a pretty bag to complete the look.
Cocktail men
Men should opt for a classic suit in a dark colour for a cocktail wedding dress code. However, a cocktail dress code is the perfect opportunity to experiment with unusual suit colours and textures. If you aren’t comfortable in a suit, you could consider a well-fitted blazer paired with stylish trousers and a contrasting shirt.
Experiment with accessories like colourful pocket squares, bold ties, or even stylish cufflinks to inject personality into your outfit.
Cocktail gender-neutral or non-binary
The flexibility of cocktail wear means it’s a great choice for gender-neutral guests. You could wear a stylish jumpsuit, a co-ordinated skirt set, or even a tailored suit in a colourful fabric. Keep accessories light and neutral so as not to distract from your outfit.
Semi-formal or dressy casual
Semi-formal or dressy casual is a dress code that falls between casual and formal wedding guest attire. It is more sophisticated than everyday casual wear but doesn’t require the formality of black-tie or cocktail wear.
Semi-formal or dressy casual ladies
Semi-formal or dressy casual means you can opt for a flowy dress, smart separates, a pretty wrap dress, or just about anything that makes you look polished and put together. You can wear heels or flats, and accessories should be tasteful and appropriate. For example, a nice watch, clutch bag, or jewellery set.
Semi-formal or dressy casual men
Men should choose a well-fitted dress shirt in a solid colour or subtle pattern with dress pants in a complementary colour. You could also wear a blazer or sports jacket if the weather is chilly and accessorise with a smart tie and cufflinks.
Semi-formal or dressy casual gender-neutral or non-binary
You can’t go wrong with tailored separates, a stylish jumpsuit, or a button-down shirt with chinos. Flat, dressy shoes are the most appropriate. Avoid overly casual sneakers or sandals.
Casual
Casual wedding guest attire is more relaxed than semi-formal or formal options but still requires thoughtful consideration. The level of casualness can vary, so it’s important to take cues from the wedding invitation, venue, and time of day. Casual weddings usually happen in the summer, so it’s important to dress to keep the sun off.
Casual ladies
Try a sundress, a flowy maxi dress, or a casual skater dress in light or pastel colours for a casual wedding dress code. Floral prints or simple patterns work well for a daytime wedding. In terms of shoes, try a low heel, sandals, or pretty dress shoes. Accessories should be light and designed to keep the sun off your face if the wedding is outdoors. For example, a hat or visor. You could also try a woven bag for a summery touch.
Casual men
It’s perfectly acceptable to wear a polo shirt, casual button-down, or a smart shirt for a casual wedding. Pair with chinos, loafers or boat shoes, and a stylish watch and belt, and you’re good to go!
Casual gender-neutral or non-binary
Try pairing a loose-fitting shirt with dress pants, chinos, or a flowy skirt for the perfect, versatile gender-neutral wedding attire as a guest. Pair this outfit with slip-on shoes, loafers, or even clean, stylish trainers to strike a balance between comfort and sophistication.
Seasonal
Seasonal wedding guest attire will depend largely on the season. For example, you would dress differently for a spring wedding than you would an autumn wedding.
Seasonal ladies
Spring or summer
Light fabrics, bright colours, and flowery dresses are all great options for spring or summer weddings. You could also try a summer suit or casual separates for a polished yet relaxed look. You can pair these with clean trainers or pumps and delicate accessories.
Patterned summer dresses tend to have a lot of white in them, so be mindful of this when selecting wedding clothing for guests. Guests should avoid wearing white wherever possible so they don’t overshadow the bride.
Autumn or winter
Wrap dresses, tasteful suits, or coordinated separates are all great options for an autumn or winter wedding. You’ll need a matching jacket to keep off the chill and sensible shoes to keep your feet warm. Stick to jewel tones, dark colours, and fur where appropriate.
Seasonal men
Spring or summer
Lightweight suits in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are excellent options for a spring or summer wedding. Choose a suit in pastel shades, neutrals, or bright colours to capture the essence of the season. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt, a complementary tie, and slip-on shoes for a modern but relaxed look.
Autumn or winter
You can’t go wrong with a classic dark suit for an autumn or winter wedding. Heavy materials like wool or velvet can add extra warmth, and brogue or Oxford-style shoes are perfect for keeping your feet warm. You’ll need a longer coat to stave off the cold. However, these look quite fashionable.
Accessorise with a watch, cufflinks, and a coordinating pocket square for a classy, put-together look.
Seasonal gender-neutral or non-binary
Spring or summer
Wide-leg trousers, a flowy top, and clean trainers give a modern but sophisticated wedding look. Stick to neutrals, pastels, or light colours to complement the fresh and vibrant atmosphere of a modern wedding.
Autumn or winter
Swap the lightweight fabric for warmer materials like wool or velvet. Wide-leg trousers in a deep, autumnal colour such as burgundy, forest green, or chocolate brown can add a touch of seasonal elegance. Pair them with a long-sleeved, flowy top in a coordinating hue or a rich jewel tone.
Layering becomes essential in cooler weather, so consider adding a tailored blazer or a stylish coat that complements the colour scheme.
Tropical or destination
Tropical or destination weddings bring relaxed vibes, patterned clothing, and casual footwear. Check the weather before you travel and pack accordingly!
Tropical or destination ladies
Flowy sundresses, maxi dresses, or jumpsuits are all perfect choices for ladies attending a tropical or destination wedding. These styles not only capture the laid-back and breezy ambiance of the location but also provide comfort in warmer climates.
Try a bright colour or tropical print to really lean into the aesthetic of a destination wedding. Footwear should be practical yet stylish. Consider strappy sandals, espadrilles, or even elegant flip-flops for beach weddings. Going barefoot, especially for beach ceremonies, can also be a charming and authentic choice.
Tropical or destination men
Lightweight and breathable clothing options are perfect for a destination wedding. Consider pairing these with tailored shorts or chinos for a laid-back look. Tropical prints, vibrant colours, and pastel hues add a playful touch to your ensemble.
Footwear should be comfortable and practical. Try loafers, boat shoes, or even stylish sandals to complement the tropical setting.
Tropical or destination gender-neutral or non-binary
A flowy jumpsuit, wide-legged pants, or any clothes with a relaxed fit will contribute to the laid-back feel of a tropical or destination wedding. Neutral, light, or bright colours are all great choices for a beach or outdoor wedding.
Footwear can include comfortable options like espadrilles, slip-on shoes, or sandals. Ensure they are suitable for the terrain and venue, especially if it’s an outdoor setting.
Come as you are
A ‘come as you are’ dress code means that guests are free to wear whatever makes them feel good, whether it’s casual, semi-formal, or even formal attire. The best thing about ‘come as you are’ is that you often don’t have to buy anything new. Instead, you can reuse items already in your wardrobe and save your money!
Come as you are ladies
Although ‘come as you are’ indicates a laid-back affair, you should still try your best to look nice and respect the formality of the big day. You can’t go wrong with a knee-length dress, low heels, and tasteful accessories.
Come as you are men
Try combining a crisp shirt with dress trousers and a complementary tie for a classic but sophisticated look. A well-fitted blazer or a tailored suit jacket can add a touch of refinement to the ensemble, elevating it to a more formal level.
Come as you are gender-neutral or non-binary
‘Come as you are’ for gender-neutral or non-binary individuals is an inclusive and open invitation that prioritises self-expression and comfort over traditional gender norms. Feel free to express yourself authentically with your favourite outfit, jewellery, and shoes.
Vintage or retro
A vintage or retro-themed wedding is the opportunity to channel the timeless elegance of a time gone by. The invitation should specify the vintage era the nearly-weds are going for. For example, 60s, 70s, or 80s. However, if it doesn’t, consider the overall aesthetic of the venue, the couple’s personalities, or any subtle clues in the invitation that might hint at the desired era.
Vintage or retro ladies
Classic silhouettes like A-line or tea length are perfect for adding a vintage flair to your outfit. You should consider patterns like polka dots, check, or even bright, solid colours paired with black accessories. Pearls, gloves, and a small fascinator can also help add a vintage touch to your outfit.
Vintage or retro men
Choose suits that reflect the fashion trends of the era. For example, slim-cut suits with narrow lapels for the 60s, or wide-legged trousers and bold patterns for the 70s. Hair was a big thing for men in years gone by, so try embracing a Grease-style hair-do for the 50s or a neatly combed style for the 40s. Skinheads were popular in the 80s and 90s. However, this may be drastic for just one day!
Vintage or retro gender-neutral or non-binary
Opt for gender-neutral or androgynous clothing styles that were prevalent in the chosen vintage era. For example, tailored suits with versatile silhouettes, jumpsuits, long skirts, and a-line dresses all work well for a classic, retro look.
Cultural attire
Dressing in cultural attire is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the culture of the nearly-weds. However, it’s important to draw the line between being respectful and appropriating the culture.
Your specific dress will depend entirely on the culture of the bride and/or groom. For example, you’d dress differently for a Korean wedding than you would for a Middle Eastern wedding.
If you have any questions about what you should wear to a cultural wedding, we recommend discussing it with the couple directly. As it’s their culture, they’ll be able to advise you on what would be appropriate to wear and how you should style yourself.
Art Deco
Art Deco is a distinct and vintage fashion style known for its sleek, modern, and glamorous aesthetic. Think the roaring 20s or The Great Gatsby, and you won’t go far wrong.
Art deco ladies
Choose dresses with distinctive Art Deco patterns like geometric shapes, chevrons, or zig zags. Sequins, fringe, dropped waists, and beadwork are also characteristic of classic 20s styles.
Avoid wearing heels. Instead, opt for ballet flats or Mary-Jane style shoes. Accessories should be bold and flashy. Think headbands, chandelier earrings, beaded clutch bags, and long bead necklaces.
Art deco men
Tailored suits with contrasting colour combinations were a classic choice for 1920s dressing. Think black and white, navy and cream, or deep jewel tones. You could also incorporate geometric patterns into your clothing for added flair. For example, patterned ties, pocket squares, or vests with Art Deco-inspired designs.
Art deco gender-neutral or non-binary
Choose tailored suits with a modern, androgynous cut. Look for suits that feature clean lines and a sleek silhouette. Experiment with two-piece or three-piece suits in contrasting colours, embracing the bold and geometric style of Art Deco.
Alternatively, a glitzy jumpsuit or long, flapper-style dress with fringe can provide an equally stunning and gender-neutral interpretation of the Art Deco aesthetic.
Colour-coded
It’s becoming more common for couples to request guests stick to a specific colour scheme, rather than setting a specific dress code. This gives guests the opportunity to express their personal style while contributing to a cohesive wedding aesthetic.
Colour-coded ladies
How you decide to apply the colour-coding request is completely up to you. For example, if the theme is blue, you could opt for a blue dress, blue shoes, a blue handbag, or even blue jewellery.
Colour-coded men
Again, if the dress code is blue, you could wear a blue suit, blue shirt, blue shoes, or a blue tie. We recommend you don’t dress entirely in blue. Instead, try picking one central blue item and building a complementary outfit around this. For example, blue trousers with a complementary shirt.
Colour coded gender-neutral or non-binary
Try a tailored suit, jumpsuit, wrap dress, or mix and match ensemble in the designated colour. You can also match your makeup, jewellery, or accessories to the colour scheme for an inclusive look.
The bottom line on wedding dress codes
Although wedding dress codes give guidelines for wedding clothing for guests, there’s still a lot of flexibility within these parameters. Instead, think of them as a framework within which you can showcase your unique style, ensuring you both honour the couple’s vision and feel authentically yourself.
Within the defined parameters of formal, semi-formal, casual, or themed attire, there’s room for personal expression. Whether it’s choosing a gown that perfectly complements the colour scheme or adding a touch of flair with unique accessories, you have the freedom to tailor your outfit to reflect your personality.
Remember, the essence of dressing for a wedding is to celebrate love, joy, and the union of two individuals. So, whether you’re donning a classic black-tie ensemble or opting for a more casual look, the key is to feel comfortable, confident, and ready to revel in the festivities.
The best dress code for a wedding is whatever best represents you and your partner. If you’re laid back, try a ‘come as you are’ dress code. If you’d like to throw a more formal affair, opt for black- or white-tie.
How do I choose a wedding dress code?
Choosing a wedding dress code comprises a lot of aspects. This includes your vision, the formality of the event, the venue, and any theme you had in mind. Take an inventory of the energy you’d like to feel on the day and translate that into your dress code.
Is it OK to wear black to a wedding?
It is acceptable to wear black to a wedding, especially if it’s a modern wedding, a black tie wedding, or a colour-coded wedding. However, we recommend that you avoid wearing black for spring or summer weddings, outdoor weddings, or destination weddings.
For as long as there have been weddings, there have been wedding guests struggling to know what to wear. Do you go traditional, simple, or show-stopping? Should you match your partner or go for complementary colours? And what’s the deal with hats? It’s enough to make anyone consider ‘losing’ their RSVP.
But, don’t worry — we’re here to help. From decoding wedding dress codes to navigating the fine line between fashionable and flashy, we’ll help you curate a look that not only complements the celebration but also shows off your personal style. Read on to learn the best colour to wear to a wedding, a breakdown of popular dress codes, and some top tips on wedding guest dressing. Happy styling!
The most important thing about wedding outfits for guests is that they don’t upstage the bride and groom. That means no ball gowns, no top hats*, and definitely no white.
The key is to find that sweet spot between expressing your style and adhering to the dress code set by the couple. You’ll also need to consider the weather and the location of the wedding. For example, a beach wedding in the summer will call for completely different attire from an autumnal forest wedding.
As a rule of thumb, you can’t go wrong with semi-formal. That means a knee-length cocktail dress, a tailored suit, or a chic jumpsuit.
*Top hats are a standard part of white-tie dress codes. However, white tie is rarely used. As a general rule, no top hats unless explicitly stated on the invitation.
What sort of wedding guest outfits are there?
What to wear to a wedding as a guest: inspiration for all seasons
Winter wedding guest outfit
Winter wedding guests face the delightful challenge of balancing style with the practicality of staying warm. As the temperatures drop, it’s an opportunity to embrace luxurious fabrics, rich colours, and cosy layers to create a standout ensemble.
Consider a long-sleeve cocktail dress in a jewel tone or something with a little bit of sparkle. If you aren’t a fan of dresses, you can’t go wrong with a well-tailored suit and a long coat that staves off the cold.
Close-toed shoes are always recommended, and you could try bringing a wrap or faux fur stole for both warmth and flair.
Summer wedding guest outfit
Summer weddings are all about being light and floaty. If you’re a fan of a dress, try a flowy chiffon number or a sundress in a cheerful print. Otherwise, try a light-coloured suit like pale blue or grey paired with a crisp, short-sleeved shirt. This strikes the perfect balance between formal and laid-back.
Loafers or dressy sandals are a great choice for footwear.
Plus-size wedding guest dresses
Plus-size guests will look fabulous in wrap or fit-and-flare style dresses. Don’t shy away from bold colours for a dramatic yet feminine look.
Slingback shoes are also a great option for those with wider feet as they provide comfort and style.
Mature ladies’ dresses for wedding guests
Mature ladies might want to opt for an a-line dress or even a tea-length gown for a sophisticated look. When selecting colours, consider timeless options like classic navy or sophisticated neutrals. These hues are not only elegant but also super versatile, allowing you to pair your dress with a range of accessories and outerwear for different seasons.
Petite wedding guest dresses
Empire waist dresses are a great choice for petite guests as they can make you look taller. You could also try a high-low hem which adds length where you need it, or try a suit tailored to your petite frame.
Maternity wedding guest dress
Maxi dresses are a great option for maternity wedding attire. The long, flowing silhouette provides ample room for your growing belly, allowing you to move with ease. If you’re not a dress kind of person, maternity jumpsuits are a modern and trendy choice.
Look for styles with an adjustable waist or a wrap design for flexibility, and make sure you can get in and out of it comfortably in a toilet cubicle. You may need a few practice runs before the big day!
The best colour to wear to a wedding will depend on the season and the couple’s requests. For example:
Spring or summer wedding
Light or bright colours are perfect for a spring or summer wedding. Think pastels, mint green, coral, turquoise, or pink.
Autumn or winter wedding
Keep your tones dark or muted for an autumn or winter wedding. Think navy, burnt orange, purple, mauve, or dark green. Jewel tones are always trendy and can add an air of sophistication to your outfit.
Match the dress code
It’s become increasingly popular for the couple to specify what colours they’d like the guests to wear. For example, you might see:
“We’d like everyone to dress in pastel colours” for a whimsical wedding.
“Please could everyone wear different shades of blue” if someone has a specific colour scheme in mind.
“We’d appreciate it if everyone could dress in black” for an ultra-chic wedding.
Don’t wear white as a guest
Unless specifically stated on the invitation that the couple would like you to wear white — just don’t do it. Most people consider it disrespectful.
It’s best to steer clear of different shades of white too. That includes ivory, bone, cream, and other similar tones.
What if my dress has a white base but a pattern over the top?
White dresses with flowers, birds, or another pattern over the top might be acceptable if the dress is more than 60% pattern and the white base isn’t the predominant colour. If you’re certain you want to wear this dress, we’d recommend getting the bride’s approval first.
You may see one of the following dress codes listed on your wedding invitation:
Black tie. Black tie usually means a tuxedo, elegant evening gown, or a cocktail dress.
Formal. A formal dress code will mean a suit, knee-length dress, or cocktail dress.
Beach formal. Try suit trousers with a button-down shirt and no tie, or a floaty maxi or midi-length dress.
Casual. Casual can mean many things. However, you can’t go wrong with suit trousers and a short-sleeve button-down shirt. You could also wear a sundress or a blouse and skirt.
If no dress code is listed, it’s best to dress semi-formal, which means a well-fitted suit or a pretty, knee-length dress.
What is the most popular dress code for a wedding?
Most people tend to opt for semi-formal. This keeps everyone looking smart while still allowing the guests to be comfortable.
Vinted is a second-hand clothes-selling app where you can find beautiful dresses for as little as £1! You can search for specific brands, sizes, colours, materials, and more. Many clothes are brand new with tags, and those that aren’t are in great condition. Plus, buying second-hand clothes is way more sustainable than purchasing brand-new clothes.
Asos is the perfect shopping destination for wedding dresses. You can set a budget using the ‘price range’ filter, and even sort dresses from lowest to highest price. You can also filter for size, colour, length, brand, and body fit.
Zara has a mix of pricier and low-cost dresses. This European brand exudes sophistication with its unique contemporary style, and you can filter dresses by size, colour, and style. However, taller guests may struggle with the length of Zara’s dresses.
Quiz is a beautiful option if you prefer traditionally feminine styles. Packed with flouncy and fluttery styles, Quiz offers great clothes for wedding guests at reasonable prices.
Abercrombie & Fitch has a whole section of their website dedicated to helping you be the ‘Best Dressed Guest’. Their dresses are beautiful, high quality, and suit a wide range of body types with their petite, regular, and tall sizing.
The John Lewis department store stocks a range of beautiful brands; it’s the perfect destination if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. If you’re lucky enough to live near a John Lewis store, they offer a complimentary personal shopping service to help you find your dream wedding guest dress.
Next is another retailer that carries a range of brands. The website is easy to navigate, and you can easily filter by price, size, colour, and occasion.
Ted Baker is another store known for its ultra-feminine styles. Although they’re a little on the pricey side, they have regular sales, and the quality is second to none.
Karen Millen is known for its high-quality and beautiful wedding guest dresses. You’ll never be outdone in a Karen Millen gown. Their wide range of dresses will suit many different body types and personal styles.
Monsoon has been a staple of wedding guest dress shopping for years. Renowned for its bohemian-inspired designs, this brand effortlessly captures the essence of romantic and whimsical fashion.
We know they look fabulous, but wearing ultra-high heels or brand-new leather shoes on a wedding day is a recipe for disaster. Tall heels will tire your feet out and prevent you from dancing, and brand-new shoes are likely to rub and cause blisters.
Instead, opt for shoes you know you’ll be comfortable in. Try wearing a lower pair of heels that you can dance all night in or wearing an already broken-in pair of brogues.
If you’re adamant you want to wear high heels, consider bringing a lower heel to change into later on. Your feet will thank you in the morning.
Be mindful of culture
Weddings with a religious element may ask you to cover up before you enter the church, temple, or mosque. You generally need to have your knees and shoulders covered to enter a religious building, and may even be asked to remove your shoes or cover your hair. Although this may not be your preference, it’s important to respect the couple’s wishes.
Consider the weather
Check the weather on the morning of the wedding, and always have a backup outfit in mind. If there’s a chance of rain, consider bringing a foldable umbrella or a stylish raincoat that complements your outfit. For unexpected temperature changes, having a shawl or light jacket can make a significant difference.
If in doubt… double-check
If you’re not sure whether an outfit is in line with the couple’s requests — ask them.
It’s perfectly acceptable to reach out to the bride, groom, or someone close to them to clarify any questions you may have about the dress code. This not only ensures that you’re on the right track, but also demonstrates your consideration and respect for their wishes.
The bottom line on being the best dressed wedding guest
Picking the perfect wedding guest outfit can be stressful. Between the cost, dress code considerations, and endless style options, the task may seem daunting. However, with a bit of planning and time spent internet shopping, you’ll be the belle of the ball.
We recommend you closely adhere to the wedding dress code, dress for comfort and not just style, and double-check with the couple if you’re unsure. Happy shopping!
Do you have to wear heels to a wedding as a guest?
No, you don’t have to. The most important thing is that you’re comfortable.
While high heels add an air of elegance to any outfit, they are by no means mandatory.
What should you not wear as a wedding guest?
You shouldn’t wear T-shirts, vest tops, football shirts, jeans, dirty trainers, flip flops, or other casual clothes to a wedding unless specifically asked to. This is the most special day of the bride and groom’s lives — make an effort for them!
Can anyone attend a wedding as a guest?
Anyone can attend a wedding ceremony in a registry office or religious building. However, you shouldn’t attend a reception you’re not invited to. It’s impolite.
Once you’ve decided to propose to your partner and the excitement starts to build, the first big question you’ll face (before you pop the question) is how much should you spend on an engagement ring?
Should you spend the traditional amount? Does your budget stretch that far? If not, are there still beautiful engagement rings out there that fit how much you’re able to pay? What type of metal should you choose? How big does the diamond need to be? Do you need a diamond at all?
In this post, we’ll answer all these questions and more. We’ll explore how much engagement rings cost, including the average amount spent, why they’re so expensive and what you can do to find the perfect ring so all you need to worry about is when and where you’ll get down on one knee.
In the UK, the average amount spent on an engagement ring is £2,089. Because this is simply an average, many rings will cost far more than this – but, many will also cost much less, and still be drop-dead gorgeous. Especially when slipped on your new fiance’s ring finger.
Depending on who you ask, there are a couple of different thoughts about how much you should traditionally spend on an engagement ring – and both revolve around how much you earn:
One month’s salary
Three month’s salary
If you’ve read that and thought about how much you earn compared to your monthly bills and how much you have currently sat in your savings account, then don’t worry. These may be traditional, but that doesn’t mean either has to be followed.
In the UK, the average salary is £29,588. So, if you stuck to either of these traditional amounts, one month’s salary would be £2,466 and three months’ salary would be £7,397. You could buy an engagement ring with a stone big enough to sink a cruise ship with either of these. But, as you can see, neither amount is the same as the average spend – so this isn’t something you should feel obliged to stick to.
Engagement rings express how you feel about the person you love, and asking them to marry you is a promise to commit yourself to them for the rest of your life. As such, a gesture like that requires a ring that’s beautiful and meaningful enough to reflect what it represents.
As well as the massive sentimental value, engagement rings are often expensive because of many other reasons:
Precious metal: Engagement rings are often made using rare and valuable precious metals, such as gold, platinum and palladium. The prices for these often fluctuate based on market conditions, but are usually exceptionally high.
Precious stones: One of the most striking features of an engagement ring is the precious stones set in the centre, with the most popular being a diamond. Depending on the cut, carat weight, clarity and colour of the diamond, the cost can start high but get astronomically high (we’re talking millions).
Brand: Designer and luxury brands are popular choices for engagement rings, which can add to the cost.
Customisation: Personalised additions, such as unique designs or engravings, can bump up the cost of an engagement ring.
Do you have to spend the traditional amount on an engagement ring?
No, you don’t have to spend the traditional amount on an engagement ring. The average amount spent may be £2,089, but that means many, many rings are bought for way less than this. Of course, it does also mean rings are bought for a lot more, too, like the $60 million pink star. Thankfully, not many people expect their partners to propose with a ring featuring a rock like that.
When the time comes to propose, you and your partner might have already had a few discussions about budgets, styles, preferences and expectations. Your partner will know what you can afford and wouldn’t want you to rack up credit card debt just so you can spend the traditional amount on an engagement ring.
Besides, it’s the thought, meaning and commitment behind an engagement ring that gives it its true value.
Just because diamonds are the most popular stone for a classic engagement ring, it doesn’t mean the ring you choose must have a diamond. There are many ring designs out there that make for wonderful engagement rings, but feature different precious stones, such as amethyst, turquoise, emerald, ruby or sapphire. If you do want to propose with a ring that features a diamond, you could choose a trilogy design, with a small central diamond with a less expensive stone on either side. That way, you can still give your partner a diamond ring, but with a unique design that doesn’t cost as much.
The short answer to this question is that you should only spend as much on an engagement ring as you’re comfortable with. How much you spend doesn’t reflect the amount of love you feel. If that were the case, you’d probably want to spend millions. At the same time, you also might want to spend more than the bare minimum, because it is, after all, one of the most significant purchases you’ll ever make.
Before deciding how much you should spend, consider the following points:
How much you can spare – If you’ve considered proposing for a while, you may have saved some money towards a ring. If it’s something you’ve recently thought about, you might not. What can you comfortably afford without going into debt?
Your partner’s expectations – What does your partner want in a ring? Something small and subtle, or a big, emerald-cut diamond? That will have a big impact on what you need to budget for.
Your long-term goals – How will buying the ring impact your savings, and in turn your aspirations? Will it mean you’ll have to save longer to get married or buy your dream house together?
What do the experts say you should spend on an engagement ring?
Wedding planning expert and founder of Bridebook, Hamish Shephard, shares his opinion on the price of an engagement ring:
“Buying an engagement ring is a huge deal. It’s the start of your journey towards marriage and acts as a symbol of your love for your future spouse.
Once upon a time, there was an expectation that you’d have to spend thousands on an engagement ring. But, for many considering popping the question today, this simply isn’t an option – especially as the cost of the average wedding pushes £20,000. Beginning your engagement and your subsequent wedding planning journey in debt because you felt obliged to spend a certain amount on a ring isn’t going to give you the strongest financial starting block. Only spend what you feel comfortable spending, because the most important thing about an engagement ring isn’t the carats or the cut of the diamond – it’s the commitment you’re making to that other person.”
How to find the perfect engagement ring for your budget?
Ready to find the perfect engagement ring but don’t want to break the bank? Below are a few tips to help you get started. Then, once the time comes to start planning your wedding, we have plenty more wedding-related cost-cutting information in our ultimate guide to saving money on your wedding.
Carefully consider your finances and set a strict budget. Don’t be tempted to go over this budget – the perfect ring will be out there for what you can comfortably afford.
Be open to alternative stones, such as sapphires or emeralds, which are still gorgeous but not as expensive as diamonds.
Remember that bigger isn’t always better. It might be tempting to go with a huge central diamond, but the clarity, carat and colour may not make a diamond the best choice when it comes to value. Smaller but higher-quality diamonds can have better fire and sparkle than one that’s larger.
Think about your choice of precious metal. The stone is often the star of the show, so can you choose a ring with a more affordable precious metal to compensate? For example, gold is more affordable than platinum, but still a wonderful choice.
Browse online jewellers. Because they have fewer overheads, you can often find bargains from online retailers. Just make sure you know their returns policy in case you don’t love it quite as much once you see it in person.
Try to subtly find out your partner’s ring size before buying. Taking a ring to be resized later will add to the cost, so buying the right size from the start will prevent unnecessary expenses.
Buy during sales. Jewellers frequently have sales and offer discounts, so wait for the sale season before making your purchase.
Ask for a discount. There’s nothing wrong with haggling, even at high-street jewellers. With tactful bartering, you might be able to get around 10% off.
Good luck with your proposal!
Once you’ve popped the question and received your YES, you can begin making plans for your big day. Here at Bridebook, we use our expertise to help you plan the perfect wedding. Sign up today and start making those plans!
The soundtrack to your wedding is one that you’ll remember forever. From the soft and soothing music as the two of you lock eyes for the first time on the big day, to the crowd-pleasing bangers your guests will dance to throughout the night, music plays a huge part in a wedding.
But, with music being such a vital part of your wedding, it might be a non-negotiable for you and your spouse-to-be. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can save money if you’re on a more restrictive budget.
In this post, we’re going to take a look at how you can save money on music at your wedding while still making sure your day hits all the right notes.
Music literally plays such a big part in your wedding day. There’s music playing as your guests arrive, at the ceremony itself, welcoming guests to the breakfast, and of course long into the night. So, the costs quickly add up.
On top of this, when you’re hiring musicians and DJs, you also have to bear in mind that you’re paying for their skill and professionalism, their expensive equipment and setup fees, their travel and time, and often, in the case of wedding-specific professionals, their experience at working weddings . And of course, the more musicians you’re paying, the more expensive it’s going to be.
These costs are in addition to any non-musical entertainment you may also wish to have (such as magicians and lawn games), so saving money on your music can help you to have a wide range of entertainers at your wedding.
If music is important to you and you know it’s something that has to play a vital role in your day, then it doesn’t necessarily have to cost a ton. Below are 10 ways you can save money on wedding music.
A great wedding band can set you back by more than £1,000, which is quite a big chunk of change. However, a DJ is generally half the cost and sometimes even less, and therefore kinder on your budget. If you’re still umming and ahhing, check out our post on how to choose between a band and a DJ.
If live music is important to you, the most affordable option in most cases is to hire a solo artist. Remember, while a band will generally set you back four figures, a solo singer will typically cost a similar amount to a DJ. Depending on what you’re going for, they may also play an instrument, such as a guitar or piano, or have pre-recorded backing music.
The main reason a band tends to be so expensive is simply because there are more musicians who need to be paid, as well as instruments and equipment. When you hire a band, generally speaking, the more members there are, the more expensive it’ll be. So, to lower costs, why not choose a band with three or four members, rather than five or six? In this case, less is less!
The same applies to classical musicians, with a harpist or cellist usually being more affordable than a string quartet (though this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule).
It might not be the most glamorous way to entertain your guests, but it’s possible to do your music yourself if keeping costs low is your no. 1 priority. All you need is a decent sound system, which your chosen venue might already have, and a smartphone with the right adapter. Then, with a few well-chosen Spotify playlists, you can ensure your wedding has music playing non-stop into the night.
As ever with the DIY approach, bear in mind going down this route comes with its own risks. A professional won’t just provide top-quality, professional-sounding music, but also provide the best possible service so you can just relax and enjoy the biggest party of your life. If something goes wrong with your own music, you’ll be the one who’ll have to sort it out, and be ready with a backup plan.
If there’s a performing arts school or conservatoire close to your chosen venue, why not approach them and ask whether there are music students available to perform at your wedding? Not only will it save you money, but students are enthusiastic and are sure to put on a great performance.
Remember that it’s expensive to travel. If you’re hiring a band which has to travel 100 miles to reach your venue, then that’s going to add a huge amount to their rates both in travel and potentially in accommodation costs too. To keep costs down, make sure you hire local musicians and check how far their catchment area stretches before committing to booking them.
To find bands and DJs close to you, check out our huge selection of wedding musicians. From bands to DJs and more, you’re sure to find the one for you!
Be mindful that the longer you require a musician, the more you’ll have to pay. For example, if you hire a string quartet, you could ask them to play to welcome your guests, during the ceremony and during the breakfast. That means they’ll play for several hours, which can get rather expensive if you’re on a tight budget. To cut down costs, consider having them play before and during the ceremony, then switch to pre-recorded music later on.
Wedding vendors across the board will usually charge premium rates during busy periods, such as during the summer months and at weekends – this includes musicians and DJs. Instead of a Saturday wedding in August, why not think about having it on a Tuesday in December instead? You’ll save money not only on your music, but also on everything from your venue to your catering.
Have you got a sister who can hold a note or a group of mates who formed a band in sixth form? Recruit them to perform at your wedding! It’ll be great for them to be involved, you’ll save money and you’ll have loads of fun too.
Just make sure that they’re happy to perform and that their standards are high… and try not to rely on them TOO heavily (remember they’re not professionals, and so you can’t expect the same quality of performance and service). You could put together a cracking playlist for the gaps in between and after, or as a possible plan B. You could give your mates a thoughtful gift to thank them for putting on a show, or perhaps a drink or two to give them a little Dutch courage.
Live music at your ceremony can turn a beautiful wedding into one that is truly memorable. However, that can come at a cost. To save money, pre-recorded music can be still be effective at creating a welcoming and romantic atmosphere – it just won’t be quite as unique. But, it’s important to remember that, first and foremost, your guests aren’t coming to your wedding to listen to live music – they’re coming to watch someone they love get married to the love of their life.
Plan your dream wedding with Brideboko
At Bridebook, we have all the tips and insider knowledge you need to plan your dream wedding. Plus, we have tools, like our handy budget planner, to help you manage and save your money too. Sign up today and start planning!
Forest weddings are whimsical and beautiful. There’s nowhere better to declare your everlasting love than in an enchanting forest surrounded by birdsong and the beauty of nature.
But hold on tight, because planning a forest wedding isn’t just about picking a location and calling it a day! You need to balance the practical details like finding a venue, choosing a photographer, and inviting your beloved guests to your beautiful, nature-inspired backdrop.
So, whether you’re planning an intimate, elven ceremony tucked away under a canopy of trees, or a fabulous flower-strewn soirée, this article will be your go-to guide for turning your dreams into a magical reality.
Ready to learn how to have a wedding in a forest? Let’s dive in!
A forest wedding is either a full wedding ceremony and reception in a forest, or simply a wedding reception hosted in a forest. It’s a beautiful and unique way to celebrate your union amongst the sights and sounds of nature.
Forest weddings offer endless possibilities for personalisation and creativity. Whether you’d like delicate, natural-inspired decor or a full-blown alternative wedding or eco-warrior wedding, you’ll have full control with a forest wedding.
⭐Did You Know: If you want to be legally married at your beautiful venue, double-check that the location of the wedding venue is an Approved Premises under the Marriages and Civil Partnerships (Approved Premises) Regulations 2005. If not, you may need to have the ceremony elsewhere and move to the forest for the reception.
Forest weddings have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many couples are drawn to the natural beauty, tranquility, and enchanting atmosphere that forests offer as a wedding backdrop.
In fact, according to our 2023 UK Wedding Report, over ¼ of wedding ceremonies took place outside. This includes the nearly one-in-five couples married in 2022 who opted for a “unique location or venue”, such as a boathouse, forest, or scenic loch.
But while outdoor, alternative, and forest weddings are growing in popularity, they certainly won’t feel overdone. The peaceful vibe and privacy of a forest wedding are second to none, and with thoughtful planning, you can create a memorable and enchanting experience for you, your partner and your guests amidst the beauty of nature.
Let’s check out some of the key steps you need to take and elements to consider when planning your forest wedding:
1. Pick your dream venue
Picking a venue is likely one of the first things you’ll do. It will be the backdrop of all your photographs and determine the size of your wedding. Make sure you visit lots of venues, chat with in-house wedding planners and discuss budgets before committing to a location.
With our wedding venue search tool, you can filter by venue types such as ‘Outdoor’ and styles such as ‘Rustic’ to see exactly what’s out there. This tool will also give you an approximate price, number of bedrooms and how many guests the location can hold. These approximations can help structure the rest of your planning and help you decide where to have an enchanting forest wedding.
Note that it may be difficult for external suppliers to make it to a wedding in a forest. So be prepared to factor in additional transport costs or pay for wedding insurance add-ons in case their stock is damaged.
2. Embrace nature-inspired decor & styling
Wedding decor can include anything from flowers and bouquets to tablescapes and fun photo booths. Incorporate wildflowers, ferns, moss and rustic wooden accents to create a whimsical and organic ambiance.
Twine, dried flowers, moss, burlap and other natural elements from the forest are often free or low-cost and look beautiful. You could also use eco-friendly paper options or consider seed paper that guests can plant afterwards! Leave a little note with the seed paper explaining the symbolic gesture of your growth as a couple and your connection to nature.
The cost of this decor will depend on your vision and how much you’re willing to do yourself. The great thing about forest weddings is that you can often use natural elements like foliage, dried flowers and rustic elements in your decorations. This decor is easy to DIY, and there are tons of tutorials online. Doing it yourself can help reduce costs, while hiring a professional wedding stylist or florist can increase expenses.
To keep costs down even further, you could create your own invitations using dried flowers, cardstock and twine. This will contribute to the rustic theme and add a personal touch to your big day. If the task feels like too much to do on your own or you aren’t very handy, ask a trusted friend (with nice handwriting) to join you in a craft evening. Then, spend some time creating your wedding invites – you’ll be surprised how much fun you have!
3. Don’t forget the essentials
This includes chairs, tables, lighting, sound systems and any necessary permits or license fees. Check with your venue whether they offer a package that includes these essentials to minimise costs.
If they don’t, look out for companies that offer plastic or polished wood furniture. These will be easier to clean and will contribute to the fresh, woodland theme.
4. Craft a woodland-inspired menu
When hosting a forest wedding, try incorporating nature-inspired elements into your food offerings to create a memorable and cohesive experience for your guests.
For example, try hosting a vegan buffet with farm-to-table ingredients. Alternatively, host a barbecue or rent food vans. These interactive catering experiences will contribute to the laid-back environment of a forest wedding and allow guests with different dietary requirements to manage their plate. Plus, you won’t need to print place cards reminding everyone what they ordered!
5. Capture the magical moments
After putting so much work into your big day, capturing the special moments of your forest wedding is essential.
Holding a forest wedding will allow for truly breathtaking wedding photography. With an ample supply of natural light and a beautiful backdrop, your wedding photos will be something to behold. Ask your photographer if they offer:
Wide-angle lenses. To capture as much of the beautiful forest as possible.
An indoor set-up in case of weather changes. Mother nature can be unpredictable, so opt for an experienced photographer who will be prepared for every eventuality.
A candid photoshoot session. Candid moments convey genuine emotions and create a more authentic story of the wedding day.
Retouching at the standard price. Although a forest backdrop makes for beautiful photos, the untameable foliage is likely to produce a few outof-place leaves or twigs. A talented photographer should be able to edit these out using software. However, you should check that this won’t come at extra cost.
🧠Pro Tip: Check out the photographer’s social media accounts as well as their portfolio when considering your options. Often, photographers will include behind-the-scenes information, their editing process and their favourite angles to use on their social media accounts. This will help you understand whether they’re the right fit for your wedding or not.
6. Combine practicality with style
When considering what to wear to a forest wedding, it’s important to consider the landscape. For example, if you live in an area that has a lot of rainfall, you might want to choose a shorter dress to ensure no mud catches on your hems.
If you really want to lean into the floral, boho theme, look for materials that have flower appliques or lace fabrics. In addition, breathable, flowing fabrics will keep you comfortable all day. Oh, and maybe leave the heels at home!
7. Don’t forget the rings
Wedding rings are one of the most important details of your wedding and an investment piece you’ll wear for the rest of your life. Be sure to pick wedding rings you love and ensure someone reliable has them on the big day.
If you’re looking for something bespoke, there are jewellers who can combine natural elements into your wedding bands. For example, sand from a beach, flower petals, or clay from the forest floor. This material is usually sealed in resin to create an unusual contrast with the metal of the ring. Or, consider having hand-crafted wedding bands – we particularly love Eco Wood Rings, lovingly made from sustainably sourced or salvaged wood and recycled precious metals.
The cost of a forest wedding can vary greatly depending on several factors. This includes your location, head count, wedding attire, the decor and your personal preferences.
Did you know that the average cost of a wedding in 2023 is £19,184, or £24,069 including the rings honeymoon? Average wedding spending has increased in almost every category since 2021!
If that figure makes your eyes water, the good news about a forest wedding is that a lot of the decor and styling is DIY-friendly. It’s easy to make a forest wedding either budget-friendly or extravagant. It totally depends on your preference and priorities.
Here are our top tips to help you plan your forest wedding:
Location, location, location: Research and visit potential forest venues to find the perfect location for your wedding. Although aesthetic appeal is important, consider factors such as accessibility, capacity and available facilities. Look for a venue that aligns with your vision and offers the necessary amenities for your wedding day. In addition, ensure that there is an accessible route for caterers, entertainers and other suppliers to help with set-up. A solid track leading into the forest can make all the difference for small wheels and big carts!
Consider the weather: If you opt for a forest wedding, the weather will make a big difference. Try to steer clear of cold and rainy seasons. However, if this can’t be avoided, cover all bases and rent a marquee to protect your guests from a potential downpour.
Dress to impress: You want to look your best on your special day. Unfortunately, looking your best can come at a price. The cost of your wedding outfit will include the price of a dress, shoes, veil, hair and makeup. For budget-conscious or eco-friendly couples, consider renting your wedding attire. This will reduce costs significantly and ensure your dress isn’t single-use.
Consider the lighting: Although a forest wedding will have ample natural lighting, that beautiful sun won’t last all day! If you intend to party into the wee hours to celebrate your love, consider adorning the trees with some lanterns or fairy lights to tie in with the whimsical theme.
Although it might feel overwhelming at first, planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times of your life, and planning a forest wedding is an opportunity to create a particularly magical and unforgettable celebration.
There may be a lot of logistical concerns when planning a wedding surrounded by nature’s beauty. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can design a one-of-a-kind experience for your and your guests.
Embrace the magic, infuse your personal touch and plan ahead to ensure a truly enchanting celebration that will be cherished for a lifetime.
There you have our guide on planning a magical forest wedding ceremony! Get started on Bridebook to discover plenty more inspiration and expert advice.
Childhood memories are precious, and often hold a special place in our hearts. What if you could relive those cherished moments on your wedding day? A themed wedding inspired by your childhood can transport you and your guests back in time, creating a magical and unforgettable experience. Get inspired by Mel and Andy’s whimsical Alice in Wonderland themed wedding, complete with quirky DIY touches and a host of unique, interactive activities.
The Inspiration & Wedding Planning
Since I was a kid, I have been obsessed with Alice in Wonderland. I have about 20-25 copies of the book, two Alice in Wonderland tattoos, and always wanted an Alice in Wonderland wedding!
Thankfully, my husband was happy to let me have my dream wedding – he went with all my crazy ideas and helped make everything. Our wedding ceremony was a White Rabbit theme; our wedding breakfast was a Mad Hatter’s tea party; and our evening party was a Red Queen theme.
My husband and I set up everything in the wedding breakfast the night before and it took hours! My mum and I then stayed over at Nunsmere Hall Hotel the night before together.
Our wedding coordinator was Erin at Nunsmere Hall, and she was the best ever! She saw our vision and was as excited as we were. We have her Hufflepuff flowers on the wedding day as a thank you (made my friend Amee at A Thousand Years Bouquets). We also gave my mum, my mother-in-law and hairdresser Alice in Wonderland flowers, and pocket watches to my three dads.
We wanted our wedding to be created by ourselves. I was the painter, Andy was the craftsman. I painted six giant paintings from the original Tenniel drawings in the original book, while Andy crafted a this way/that way sign, which I then painted, as well as stands for my paintings and signs, and our own photo memory board. We made all of our own themed invites and table names too.
We collected tea cups, tea pots, plates etc. for our table decorations. It took two years to collect enough items to make our wonky table decorations, which were covered in card and flowers and keys. Most of our decorations came from charity shops. Our centerpieces for the wedding breakfast were all homemade, and took us about nine months to complete in little stages.
My bouquet was handmade by my friend Amee at A Thousand Years Bouquets (she can be found on Facebook). They are made of an old copy of Alice in Wonderland and blue card. She is amazing!
My wedding shoes were Alice in Wonderland converse-style, which I bought from ShoeArtCottage on Etsy. I also had Alice in Wonderland socks, which were a gift.
I had my nails done by Karen at Shanti Beauty in Crewe, Cheshire. They were French nails, but my ring fingers were blue with bows on them. Andy bought me stopwatch earrings for the day, and I bought him his cufflinks. I had his tie and pocket square made from blue Alice in Wonderland fabric by my friend Stewart. My bracelet and necklace were from Pandora, and featured all of the Alice in Wonderland collection, which my mum and stepdad had bought me as gifts on the day.
My hen do was at the Rabbit Hole Team Room in Stoke. It was an Alice in Wonderland afternoon tea that my best friend and chief bridesmaid Vickie arranged.
Two of my dads walked me down the aisle, and Andy wrote the best speech and had everyone laughing. He wrote me a poem in his speech, too, and it was just beautiful.
We had a chessboard dance floor and provided games like Jenga, and cards for the evening party. We made our own photo booth frame, which we used our own camera for, with props to go with it.
We had a sweet table with “Eat Me” jars on it, which my two dads arranged for us. Our wedding favours were little shots of gin in “Drink Me” bottles, and “Eat Me” cookies shaped like mushrooms.
Dreaming of planning your own childhood-inspired themed wedding? Then take a leaf out of Mel and Andy’s book, and start putting together your own unique ideas – the possibilities are endless!
Finding the perfect wedding dress or suit can be a huge relief, however, that’s not where it ends when it comes to putting your attire together for the big day. There are still accessories to choose from to complete the ensemble, from the shoes you’re going to wear that balance style and comfort (you’re going to spend a lot of time on your feet!) to the jewellery that ties it all together.
But, what do couples spend on accessories during the build-up to a wedding? In this post, we’re going to take a look at everything related to wedding accessory costs, including shoes, bags, headpieces, jewellery and everything in between.
Wedding accessories are the extras you’ll wear on your wedding day in addition to your dress or suit. They add a little extra sparkle and complement the overall style and theme of your wedding.
Bridal accessories include a veil, a headpiece, jewellery, shoes and a handbag or clutch.
Groom accessories include a tie or bowtie, cufflinks, a watch, a pocket square, shoes and a belt.
There are also accessories for the ceremony and reception, such as ring pillows and flower girl baskets, and accessories at the reception, like table numbers that complement the decor.
The average amount couples spend on wedding accessories is around £300-£400. This can include bridal accessories such as a veil and garter, and groom accessories like cufflinks and a pocket square.
If you’re looking for an idea of what individual accessories might cost, the below guide will give you an estimate of what to budget for. You can also use our ultimate wedding budget breakdown for an understanding of how much your overall wedding may cost.
Veil
A traditional bridal dress is worn with a veil, but it’s certainly not a requirement. In fact, over half of today’s brides choose not to wear one, so there is no right or wrong answer. If you’re keen to wear a veil, depending on the style you choose, expect to spend anywhere from £50 – £250. Bespoke veils with personalised detailing will naturally cost more than standard designs.
Nathalie Neuilly, founder of Dressarte Paris, shares her expert insights as an experienced dressmaker: “We often do custom veils adding custom messages, initials etc. But it’s true that more than 75% of our brides decide to go without veils. Instead they prefer to add fresh flowers when styling their hair, or upcycle their mum’s veil and create a custom accessory.”
Headpiece
If you’re not wearing a veil, a headpiece, such as a tiara or hair comb, can add a little extra sparkle. Costs will be around £100 – £250 but can go higher.
Jewellery
Of course, you’ll likely already have jewellery that would work nicely on your wedding day, but you may want to treat yourself to something new for such a special occasion. Costs for new jewellery can range from a simple pair of earrings at £20 and go up from there.
Jacket
If you’re wearing a strapless dress or getting married during the colder months, you may want to consider a bridal jacket that complements your dress for when the temperature drops. Costs start from £75.
Garter
A garter is a traditional accessory worn around the bride’s thigh and is usually made from lace. It’s another accessory that many brides choose not to wear, but if it’s something for you then you might spend between £20 – £50.
Handbag or clutch
Not many wedding dresses come fitted with pockets, and the modern bride needs somewhere to keep your phone that isn’t your bra. Plus, a small handbag or clutch can complement a dress beautifully. Costs for a clutch will often fall between £25 – £80.
Tie
The groom’s tie is a way to tie a suit together with the overall style and colour scheme of the wedding. Ties will often cost around £25 – £60.
Cufflinks
Cufflinks are a popular gift for a bride to gift her groom ahead of the ceremony. They can be unique and personal and can be customised so that they have meaning behind them. They cost around £50 – £100.
Pocket squares
Pocket squares are another traditional wedding accessory and one that is still typically upheld. It’s another great way to introduce a touch of colour to a suit. Thankfully, they’re relatively inexpensive at around £10 – £15.
Belt
A belt is something already found in no short supply in many drawers, but a new belt for the big day will cost around £15 – £25.
Another key accessory to budget for is the shoes you’ll wear on your big day. At your wedding, you’ll spend a lot of time on your feet, from the time the two of you are exchanging vows to when you’re dancing the night away ten hours or so later. For that reason, you’ll each need a pair of shoes that are kind to your feet.
The average cost of wedding shoes will vary, but couples in the UK spend around £200 on new footwear.
Whether you’re looking for a flat or something with a heel, practicality is just as important as style on your wedding day. The cost of your bridal shoes can vary, but if you budget for between £60 – £150 you should find something to suit any taste.
How much do the groom’s shoes cost?
Grooms have a similar range of choices, including style, colour and even heel if you’re looking to gain an inch or so. Costs for groom’s shoes also vary, but will be around £50 – £130.
There’s a lot to buy during the build-up to your wedding, and whether or not you should buy new jewellery is your decision.
As it’s your special day, you may want to treat yourself to a new piece of jewellery to mark the occasion. Of course, if you’re hoping to wear several accessories, you may have to wear some that you own already. When you consider the cost of a headpiece, a necklace, earrings, a bracelet, cufflinks and a watch, the cost can quickly add up. Our data shows that the average amount couples spend on jewellery is £1,000, and this doesn’t include the cost of the wedding rings. But, it depends on you, your budget and the sentimentality as to whether or not you should buy new jewellery. It’s always nice to have a little treat though, of course!
This is another question that doesn’t have a right or wrong answer. Whether the groom should wear a hat and gloves or not depends on the formality and the theme of the wedding. At a formal wedding, they’re not generally worn, but at a very formal wedding, where the groom may be wearing a tuxedo rather than a suit, they may also choose to wear a top hat, gloves, and even carry a walking stick. But, it’s purely a matter of taste and what suits your style. If this is something you’re looking to wear, then the cost for a hat and gloves will start from around £200.
Accessories at your wedding ceremony, the wedding breakfast and evening reception do often cross over into wedding decor territory, which is worth bearing in mind when it comes to accessorising and budgeting for your overall wedding.
Examples of wedding ceremony accessories include:
Ring pillow or box
Basket for the flower girls
Guest book and pen
Aisle runner
Examples of wedding reception accessories include:
Themed weddings are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. From fairytale castles to rustic barns, the possibilities are endless. But how to plan a themed wedding that’s both creative and personal, yet tasteful and classy? Check out Joanne and Luke’s fabulous Lord of the Rings themed wedding – the perfect combination of intricate planning and thoughtful DIY touches.
The Inspiration & Wedding Planning
Luke and I are both self-styled Mega Geeks. We love everything fantasy and our home is filled with memorabilia, figurines and books etc. We met at London Film & Comic Con, where I was dressed in a costume she had made as Daenerys from Game of Thrones. For our wedding we needed to find a theme that suited both the venue and was a passion for both of us in equal measure.
We tried to infuse our themes throughout the wedding without being too over-the-top and were absolutely thrilled with the result, which we felt really reflected us and our passions. Lots of guests commented that the days was very “us”, which was lovely to hear. everyone had a wonderful time!
Had we chosen a castle venue, Game of Thrones was the obvious choice of theme, but when we found Bourton Hall we absolutely fell in love and no other venue then would do!
It did, however, require a theme re-think, and so we picked the obvious (to us): Lord of the Rings! A lifelong obsession for both of us – both the books and the wonderful movie trilogy, as well as The Hobbit – it was a theme we could both throw ourselves in to fully! We felt it lent beautifully to the gorgeous wood panelling and natural feel of the venue and lent to decorating with wonderful greenery, white, natural flowers and wooden accessories.
Luckily, Luke is an artist (check out his beautiful creations here), which meant we could design so much of our stationery ourselves (and saved a fortune in the process!).
He created our invitation suite entirely from scratch using the fonts and styles of the Lord of the Rings, and even wood-burned our table names himself, all places from the world of Tolkien.
Our top table was Rivendell, complete with a golden dragon to keep an eye on us. We couldn’t find an actual Smaug, so Viserion from Game of Thrones did a wonderful job of filling in for him!
Luke also created an amazing table plan, fitting in with the maps of Middle Earth (Rivendell, Erebor, Hobbiton, Mordor, Lothlorien and so on), which everyone commented on!
We decorated the lounge tables with piles of old books rather than flowers to give the area a cosy, “Hobbity” theme, and hidden around the beautiful floristry were some little hanging Hobbit holes.
We created some guest bags to go in the rooms of our guests that stayed overnight, and made labels for items with relevant quotes from the books to decorate. And finally, we had a photo booth in the evening, for which we collected various Lord of the Rings related props and costumes which leant to some wonderfully funny moments in the evening!
I had ordered a replica of Galadriel’s Nenya ring to wear on the day, which came in a beautiful wooden carved box. I also contacted Weta Workshop (who created all the props, costumes, and pretty much everything for the films), and they very kindly sent a second ring box – which we were completely blown away by – so that both the bride and groom’s rings could be kept in style!
Some little finishing touches were Luke’s cufflinks, handmade little wooden Hobbit holes which were a Father’s Day gift from Charlie, who also had a Leaf of Lorien brooch on his little suit.
Whilst waiting for the bride to arrive, there were some Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings musical pieces, and during the wedding breakfast we had created a playlist using acoustic versions of various themes, including Harry Potter, Star Wars and even Pokémon!
If you’re looking for a wedding that’s personal to you and your partner, why not have a fantasy-themed wedding of your own? With careful thought and plenty of research, you can – like Joanne and Luke – incorporate your favourite elements in a manner that’s both creative yet tasteful.
When it comes to planning your dream wedding, one of the most important decisions is choosing your theme. The possibilities are endless – from formal black tie and season-themed weddings to all-black weddings and media-based pop culture weddings. One other very popular and currently trending wedding theme is the boho wedding.
If you’re a free-spirited individual who would LOVE a natural and earthy outdoor wedding with rustic themes, lavish floral arrangements, flowing light linen drapery, woven decor elements, and DIY projects aplenty, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you’ll need to plan the boho wedding of your dreams.
Before we get to the planning stage, let’s clarify exactly what a boho, or bohemian, wedding is. The bohemian lifestyle means embracing your free spirit and becoming one with nature. The ‘boho chic’ trend began gaining popularity around the 2000s while being heavily inspired by the ’60s and 70s Hippie era.
Now, you don’t have to follow the hippie culture A-to-Z or have a complete boho wedding; instead, you can pick and choose what you like to have in a wedding that follows your vision. The best part about this is that you won’t go wrong with anything you choose. With a boho wedding, blending your natural surroundings with touches that reflect your personality is all you need for perfection.
If you’re a couple that prefers structure and a clear-cut plan, then incorporating macrame and boho-inspired stationery, such as handwritten calligraphy, botanical prints, and watercolour designs would look amazing. But if you’re a more free-spirited couple, an eclectic mix of colours and textures should be the way to go.
There’s a lot to consider when planning a wedding. A boho wedding is no different: you can opt for a romantic, vintage, or natural boho wedding with different elements thrown in. To help you out, we’ve created a guide that will help you with shortlisting and finalising your options:
Your venue is one of the key elements that will show your passion for the bohemian lifestyle. Boho wedding venues are laid-back, natural, and generally in an outdoor setting, with possible rustic or vintage touches. The best thing about these is that they cost less than traditional weddings, so you can get the real fairytale wedding without breaking the bank.
You can get married in:
A famous local park
Natural reserve
Beach
Farmhouse
Ranch
Orchard
Barn
Cottage
Even in a well-decorated backyard or garden
Some of the lush and green places in the UK that would make a perfect setting for a boho or outdoor wedding are:
Cornwall: With its golden beaches, rugged coastline, and beautiful gardens.
The Cotswolds: Known for their scenic villages, rolling hills, and gorgeous countryside.
The Scottish Highlands: With their wild and beautiful landscapes, dramatic mountains, and ethereal forests, you can’t get a more boho wedding venue than this.
Top tip: don’t forget to consider the local climate and weather when choosing a location.
When choosing the decor for your picturesque boho wedding, choose decor that works with your venue. If you have an outdoor wedding in a garden, park, forest, or beach, focus on natural, earthy elements that will make the venue pop. You can never go wrong with Pampas grass and driftwood accents.
For the floral arrangements, you don’t have to follow structure or have manicured bouquets with matching flowers. Mismatched wildflowers with succulents and big boughs of greenery are popular options in the boho wedding scene. You can even match your bouquet and flower crown, if you choose to wear one, with the floral arrangements.
You can save on budget for the rest of the decor by making it a DIY project or thrifting. Here are a few other decor items to consider:
The arch: you can go with a fun and spirited geometric arch or macramé fringes for a whimsical setting. If you want to take a more natural route, raw wood and florals can create an arch that will awe your guests.
Rugs: rugs can be used to line the aisle for a softer and easier walking path and also the dance floor for a coachella-esque approach.
Rustic decor: The options are numerous: feathers, candles, bottles and jars, and glassware.
Boho wedding dresses tend to be more casual, whimsical, and often not white. Some have off-the-shoulder designs with flowing sleeves; others are covered from top to bottom with lace. Since they’re more minimalistic than their traditional counterparts, you can get a boho wedding dress for a lot cheaper. If we’re selling you on the budget-friendly options, trust us, most boho weddings are that cost-effective.
For accessories, you could pair the dress with vintage jewellery, flower or lace headbands, and even cowboy boots and a hat for a fun twist.
Here’s a list of ideas for boho wedding dresses:
Flutter sleeves or lantern sleeves
Non-white wedding dress, such as cream, champagne, light pink, or any soft pastel colour
A goddess-style boho wedding dress with an inner corset, flowing sleeves, and mermaid skirt
Plus size boho wedding dress with sweetheart neckline and bishop or long puff sleeves
Here are some popular boho wedding accessories to consider:
Like with the decor and everything else – boho wedding invitations are best to keep casual, fun, and whimsical. For a spiritual touch, a metallic mandala embossed invitation would give off elegant yet mystic vibes. For a more laid-back option, deckled edge or kraft paper invitations would look amazing. Following an eclectic theme, your invitations can be mismatched with funky colours.
If you want to check out our range of boho wedding invitations, check out our stationery section.
As we all know, the vibe of any place is set by good, relevant music. For a boho wedding, you want to set the mood with music that follows your wedding theme and breathes life into the venue. Your guests could end up disappointed with a generic DJ or band who doesn’t understand how to enthral the crowd with music that fits.
For a classic boho wedding, you could skip the DJ and opt for instrumental pieces or even violin and piano music. Acoustic wedding singers could also make the evening magical with a personalised playlist: Michael Mulholland, Matthew Turner and Ed Peczek are some of Bridebook’s most in-demand acoustic wedding singers.
6. Wow your guest with a boho wedding cake and bohemian menu
Food brings everyone together, and what better way to make your wedding memorable than having a unique spread with foods from cultures around the world? You can contact a catering company and work with them to design a custom menu, or if you want to go down a simpler path, having a simple buffet with dishes from different parts of the world is a good option too.
You can get locally-sourced food from farms and ranches around you with rustic selections like a charcuterie board, fruit platters, local wine, vintage elements like a vintage food truck, or DIY food stations.
And for the heart of the wedding, the wedding cake, you can take inspiration from the ground and the sky above. There’s nothing dreamier than a celestial-inspired cake featuring geodes and gemstones. Alternatively, naked cakes adorned with flowers and lush greenery are also a signature bohemian wedding staple.
FAQs
Check out some commonly asking questions about planning a boho wedding ceremony, along with their answers.
How many people use boho weddings?
While there are no clear-cut stats on the percentage of people opting for a boho or outdoor wedding, boho weddings are one of the most popular wedding themes for 2023. With more and more people embracing the minimalistic, free-spirited approach, boho weddings will only be gaining popularity.
How can you make a boho wedding bouquet?
There’s no ‘one’ way to make a boho bridal bouquet. Instead, you can match the wedding bouquet with your dress, accessories, or venue. Pampas grass is an evergreen option; you can pair it with rust-coloured florals. Or, a bouquet of wildflowers tied together with lace is a great option too. If you need some inspiration, check out these boho floral arrangements on Pinterest.
What should grooms wear to a boho wedding?
The essence of a boho wedding is freedom; naturally, it also extends towards the groom. He can match his clothes with the bride’s or opt for something completely different such as no shoes or a cream shirt with suspenders – think Leonardo DiCaprio in Titanic.
What is the colour of boho?
There is no single “colour of boho” – it’s a blend of different tones ranging from earthy to stunning jewel tones, encompassed in neutral and warm colours such as white, grey, brown, yellow, orange, blue, red, white, etc.
Now you have the perfect guide to planning the boho wedding of your dreams. For hassle-free and cost-effective A-to-Z wedding planning, get started on Bridebook today!
In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on the achievements of female wedding business owners. Women have long played a prominent role in the wedding industry. From wedding planners and coordinators to wedding designers, photographers, florists, cakemakers, caterers, and more, women make up 80% of the wedding industry! Read the success stories, achievements and advice of some of Bridebook’s top female business owners below.
About Mercedes: Mercedes (she/her) is a qualified venue stylist and prides herself on having great customer service and high attention to detail. She owns and manages 4YaParty Weddings & Events, specialising in providing eco-friendly and sustainable wedding and event decor, upcycled wedding decor, prop hire, and sweet treats. She says no to balloons and no to single-use plastic. Plus, for every booking she makes, she’ll have a tree planted in your honour!
Proudest achievement to date: “Becoming an accredited member of the Sustainable Wedding Alliance, making weddings eco-friendly by being carbon neutral for 2 years!”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Being a black, queer, disabled, female business owner comes with many challenges! But the biggest challenge I have is believing in myself and knowing my worth! Believing in the value that my service brings to the wedding industry. But I have an epic support network in family, friends, the SWA and wedding suppliers, who have become friends!”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Meeting lovely couples from all walks of life and hearing their love stories, watching their personality as a couple unfold in their wedding decor!”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “My biggest advice for any woman who wants to start their own business is to make sure you’re passionate about whatever you choose! Running your own business is not a get rich quick route at all! It’s a very slow burner lol so if you don’t truly love it, then when it gets hard, it will be too easy to give up!”
About Gemma: Gemma is a leading entrepreneur and businesswoman in the hospitality industry with a number of nationally recognised restaurants, hospitality venues, catering companies and social enterprises under her guiding hand. She began her career in her teens, when she famously became the youngest licensee in the country. Over the last two decades she has developed a wide portfolio across the UK, successfully building iconic venues that are rooted in their communities. ****She opened The Isla Gladstone Conservatory in 2014 in the heart of Stanley Garden.
Proudest achievement to date: “They all said it couldn’t be done…A glass house in Liverpool…We have gone from strength to strength each year and have an all-women management team!”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “COVID…To see your hard work and dream stopped with nothing you could do about it. Having to break bride’s and groom’s hearts postponing their date time and time again, when we didn’t know when we could open again. It was truly the hardest time ever.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “It’s a happy place to be. Guests arrive happy, venue looks beautiful, and we get to be one of the happiest memories for brides and grooms.”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Believe in what you do…Look for support…Employ the best people to be around you…And enjoy!!!”
About Stacey: Stacey, a.k.a. the “turbocharged wedding booking superstar”, is founder and CEO of The Venue Experts. She comes with over 20 years’ experience in the industry. From managing wedding venues and developing businesses in the hospitality sector to hosting large-scale events at some of the East Midlands’ best-known events companies, she is ready to take on any challenge. Stacey has extensive knowledge of managing venues in-house, having had business development and sales consultant roles at properties including Belvoir Castle and Hodsock Priory.
Proudest achievement to date: “I was recognised as one of the top 100 Female Entrepreneurs to watch by The Telegraph and NatWest.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Starting a business in the pandemic.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Making a difference in the industry and being considered as one of the leading experts.”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Believe in yourself, know your worth, and remember that it is worth the risk.”
About Natalie: Natalie is an independent celebrant and proud founder of Velvet Moon Ceremonies. She loves crafting bespoke, personal ceremonies that reflect each couple as individuals and their story together so far. This includes matching both the tone (be it fun and laidback, or sentimental and romantic) and theme (traditional or alternative), and learning what’s most important to the couple. She weaves all this together into their script, to create a truly unique ceremony.
Proudest achievement to date: “I’m proud that within my first proper year of weddings I already got to do one of my dream ceremonies – one themed around the video game series Final Fantasy! I love being able to write meaningful, special ceremonies for couples that reflect who they are and what they enjoy whilst they celebrate their love for each other.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Having 2020 as what should have been my first wedding season! Obviously everything got pushed back and it’s been slow going, but I’m proud of what I achieved last year and I couldn’t have asked for better couples to work with.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Being part of someone’s wedding day, surrounded by so many talented women who are amazing at their work! There’s so much build up, and being a 2023 bride myself I know how much work goes into the planning and the trust you have to have for every supplier involved to understand what you want and bring it together on the day.
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Network – there are so many other amazing women in this business who have been through what you have or struggled in similar ways. They can provide support and advice on any issue you’re facing as well as cheer you on and celebrate your wins.”
About Jemma: Jemma is the proud owner and director of Charlesworth Classics Ltd. She works with couples from start to finish to choose and arrange the perfect transport for their special day. From vintage and classic London taxis to iconic Rolls Royces, there’s something for everyone. She hand-picks all the drivers herself, and prides herself on the service she provides.
Proudest achievement to date: “Breaking through the wedding car industry! I am not aware of another female director in this field local to me currently. This is still a very male dominated role, and there is still a very strong “boys’ club” mentality, which I hope will change in years to come. I have been very fortunate to have the support of my husband (which has made interactions with other wedding car companies a little easier), and to have been included with a select few individuals with whom I work very closely and experience no prejudice.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “I think my biggest challenge/lesson has been to follow my instincts. Prior to starting my company I was a stay-at-home wife. I had no experience what-so-ever. I just knew this was something I wanted. When COVID came, I refused to jump on the panic bandwagon. I made the most of the down-time and grew my business and feel I was in a good position to move forward once normality was restored.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “My couples! I love hearing the stories behind why my couples want to book my cars, whether it’s because we have been recommended by friends or family, or they simply just love our cars. There is always a story there and I love hearing them. Looking back at photos and receiving a review, reading the appreciation of the service my team and I have provided, there really is no better feeling!”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Believe and achieve! Mindset is one of the most important parts of owning your own business. Find other women with your mindset and work together, pick each other up. Owning your own business can be very lonely. You spend a lot of time alone so a good support network is very beneficial – you don’t even need to work in the same field.”
About Nyssa: Nyssa is the owner and manager of the Edinburgh School of Food & Wine. She prides herself on delivering a first-class service, having a dedicated wedding team to ensure each couple’s day runs perfectly from beginning to end. She organises and manages everything from wedding catering, bar services, room set up, lighting options, and prop selection. Couples can also choose from stag and hen do packages at the cook school, ranging from cocktail masterclasses to champagne, whisky or wine tasting, to BBQ cookery and food masterclasses.
Proudest achievement to date: “Finalist for 3 wedding awards as caterer of the year.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Taking over the business mid-COVID and making it a success whilst also being mum to three young kids.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Making specials for our clients, the delight of delicious food and great service!”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Take the leap! It is so fulfilling to run your own business. It is hard work but worth every minute.”
About Lily: Lily is a passionate professional singer-guitarist who has been performing in and around Yorkshire at wedding and other private milestone celebrations for the last 10 years. A true expert in her field, she has played at all types of weddings, from cliff tops in Portugal to a DIY woodland wedding. She strives to make every couple’s day special, from singing as you walk down the aisle, to entertaining guests during the photos, and can create custom playlists of wedding songs.
Proudest achievement to date: “Singing at my first wedding abroad was very special! Also the fact I managed to get so many bookings that I could leave my full-time teaching job, which made me so stressed I got ill. I’m now happy and thriving and working at 10% of the capacity I was before.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Making the move from part-time to full-time. The instability of self-employed work is so scary, but now I’m in it I could never go back!
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Getting to be involved in the best day of people’s lives. Everyone is happy at a wedding, and that happiness spreads.”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Find something that doesn’t feel like work. And enjoy every moment! When you genuinely love your job, everything else in your life fits into place. Take every opportunity you can but also look after yourself and put aside time for yourself!”
About Sarah: Sarah is an award-winning professional cake artist and proud owner of The Purple Pumpkin Cake Company. After a career in retail management, she made the inspiring decision to turn her hobby into her profession. She creates bespoke wedding cakes and fresh designs for every couple, to make your cake individual and unique to you. Having inherited baking from her mum, and now with four children of her own, family is everything to her.
Proudest achievement to date: “I’ve won two business awards alongside cake awards. Being awarded for my business skills was amazing!
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Apart from COVID you mean? Being a mother of four, then taking on the custody of my six-month old grandson, while caring for my dying mum, while running a successful business, off the back of COVID, and still smiling always!”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “I get to meet loads of excited, varied and different couples, and be part of their stories! I also love working alongside other fantastic suppliers.”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “People buy from people, so be more you. Don’t look at others and try to copy them. Be yourself, and you’ll be successful. If you’re always comparing yourself to others you’ll never get there!”
About Emily: Emily is empathetic and quirky Belgian-born photographer with a passion for being who we are unashamedly. Her commitment is pure and simple – to tell each couple’s unique story sensitively and with humanity. Based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, but working across the UK, she produces images and photo albums that you will treasure for decades to come. She has been lovingly described as “approachable, upfront, honest, hopeful, curious, quirky.”
Proudest achievement to date: “Being back at square 1 in a brand new career aged 37 and building a sustainable business from scratch.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Managing my own expectations of what can be achieved. Owning a business is a few full-time jobs in one with a huge variety of skillsets to be acquired over time. I have to accept that I can’t acquire them all at once. I have to be patient.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Being totally independent when making my own decisions to grow my own business. My daily successes are mine and mine alone to celebrate.”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Don’t ever believe any unsupportive voices…whether they come from others or from yourself. Us women have a tendency to have in-built doubt in what we are capable of. We have to fight that inner voice. We can achieve whatever we set our mind to in our own way, using our own strengths and our own uniqueness.”
About Jade: Jade is an experienced film maker, videographer and owner of Hushabye Films. She spent over 15 years in broadcast television, working as a shooting producer/director, with experience across channels such as the BBC, ITV, MTV, E4, C4, Sky and various other satellite channels, with credits on high-profile programmes including the BAFTAs, Big Brother, T4, Comic Relief and V Festival. She has also created hours of online, YouTube and corporate content. She takes a cool, calm and personalised approach to shooting wedding films.
Proudest achievement to date: “When I decided to shoot weddings, I knew straight away I was going to do things differently! I took everything I had learnt from my 10+ years working as a TV producer and used it to make wedding films that people actually wanted to watch! When I started there were no “fun” wedding videographers. There was a HUGE gap in the market and I grabbed it with both hands! I’ve now shot over 200 weddings.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “COVID!!! We were NOT prepared for that!!! But somehow I managed to shoot some small weddings and make promotional films to earn some income and spend hours everyday moving dates and making sure I could still film all the weddings the following year whilst also shooting all the new ones!”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Working with the clients you want to work with and being creative everyday. I love the wedding industry and all the talented supplier friends I’ve made.”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Don’t worry about what other people are doing with their businesses. Do what’s right for you and recognise that everyone is at a different stage of their own journey. Don’t carbon copy a business because it looks like it’s successful. Take inspiration if you have to but always put your own spin on it so you can be proud of your achievements.”
About Harriet: Harriet is a Sheffield-based illustrator and graphic designer who specialises in creating hand-drawn bespoke wedding stationery. Working on a friend’s wedding stationery made her fall in love with the creative process. Since then, she has gone on to showcase her work at wedding fairs and attract a whole host of couples wanting something special for their wedding stationery. Harriet is passionate about creating unique designs that celebrate the wedding venue, reflect the couple’s interests, or even feature a beloved furry friend who can’t attend the big day.
Proudest achievement to date: “I’m most proud of my portrait seating plans! I’m so excited whenever couples want to work with me on them. The amount of work put into drawing every guest individual portraits and piecing it together is massive but so rewarding, and such a fabulous keepsake for the couples themselves.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Realising that your product/style might not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s a good thing. Because it makes what you do so much more unique and custom.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Delivering all the stationery goodies! There’s so much excitement from the couples, and I’m very grateful to be part of the buildup.”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Believe in yourself and your product. If you’re giving it 100% then your passion will shine through.”
About H: As well as looking after the marketing and social media side of Lawley Fine Jewellers, H is a passionate jeweller and specialist in handmade engagement and wedding rings. She loves being at the bench and mastering the technical skills required to make beautiful pieces.
Proudest achievement to date: “Our biggest achievement is definitely the popularity and feedback of our Make Your Own Wedding Rings experiences. This year was our busiest yet!”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Definitely the pandemic, which really hit the industry hard. We consider ourselves fortunate in that we were able to keep going. It was a stressful time both for couples organising their big days and for all the suppliers serving them.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Being involved in a small way in each couple’s plans – especially with their wedding rings, which will be worn and cherished every day – is something amazing and we feel honoured. Also, making such great friends with other local talented wedding suppliers has been a wonderful surprise, as it’s something we didn’t expect. Being able to support each other and recommend trusted suppliers to our couples is fantastic.”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Follow your own path and be authentic. Have each other’s backs and support each other, be it to share and recommend or offer friendly advice.”
About Amy: Amy is the founder and owner Beewildblooms, a family-run floristry business in Scotland. She specialises in unique wedding flowers and decor, as well as floral masterclasses and 1:1 classes. She is proud to have been featured in both Rock N Roll Bride Magazine and Rock My Wedding. Her style is rustic, wild, romantic, and most certainly one-of-a-kind!
Proudest achievement to date: “Starting our family floristry business during lockdown with no clients – selling £16 arrangements to doorsteps and now becoming a finalist for best wedding florist [for the Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards 2023] and being fully booked for 2023.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “Having zero funding or savings after redundancy and building my business whilst also being a full-time mum at home.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Delivering a bespoke and personalised service to our lovely couples – we keep numbers small to deliver big joy!”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Be authentic – YOU are your own super power! Keep trying different things until you find something that makes you happy and fills your cup. You are running your own business for a reason, because you can and you want to – so never forget your why! Don’t compare to others as everyone is at a different stage in business!”
About Becky: At Lavelle Bridal Couture, it’s just Becky, all the way. From booking your very first private bridal appointment to the big day, she’s with you every step of the way. Having learnt to sew at the age of 10, she pursued a career in fashion and textiles, working for various design houses and retailers before opening her own bridal boutique right in the heart Warwick. Before opening her shop, she first studied wedding dress design at the London College of Fashion, so knows exactly what’s involved in the construction and how to advise on dress customisations and alterations.
Proudest achievement to date: “My biggest achievement happens every day in my small business… The majority of women feel super nervous when it comes to wedding dress shopping, and I always feel so proud when a bride leaves my boutique with the biggest smile on her face, having had the most amazing wedding dress shopping experience with me. I pride myself on helping brides feel comfortable and confident in their own skin so they feel gorgeous in their dream wedding dress.”
Biggest challenge to overcome: “COVID was a huge challenge for any business, but also supporting brides through such tough times was very challenging at times. The uncertainty of weddings was tough to navigate but I’m very proud to say that I’ve come through it and thrived.”
Best part about owning a wedding business: “Feeling honoured to be chosen by my brides to take a part in their special day and the emotions that brides feel and experience when they find the perfect dress. It’s such a special moment and I love that I can be a part of that!”
Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Collaboration over competition, every day. I always think there is no competition as no-one can be you. Just be yourself and you’ll find the people who love what you do. If you support one another it will always pay you back at some point and then you’ll make great friends across a variety of industries who can support you through your journey.”
The wedding industry owes a great debt to the countless female business owners who have dedicated themselves to making couples’ special days truly unforgettable through their creativity and hard work. We hope that the inspiring stories and insights shared by the female business owners featured here will encourage more women to follow in their footsteps and continue to make a mark on the wedding industry for many years to come.
Winter weddings can be such a magical and dreamy experience. But choosing the right winter wedding outfit can be challenging as well. As a wedding guest, you want to look balance formality and style, while also staying warm and comfortable amidst cooler temperatures. To help inspire you, we’ve put together our top tips and tricks for the best winter wedding guest outfits, so you can look and feel your best this season, whatever your style or budget, and whatever the weather!
1. Dresses
Dresses with billowing sleeves, higher necklines, and longer hems are ideal choices for a winter wedding. Opt for a thicker, heavier fabric, like wool or velvet, to keep you warm. You can choose from a variety of sensible styles, from a flowing maxi dress to a form-fitting cocktail dress. The trick is to make a statement with bold prints and luxe embellishments like beading or lace detailing.
2. Suits
You can’t go wrong with a stylish suit at a winter wedding. For warmth and comfort, choose a suit made from a heavier fabric, like wool or corduroy. For a more casual look, consider a pair of dress trousers or skirt with a button-up shirt, with either a sweater or blazer. If you’re on a budget, consider renting a suit – it’s not only a cost-effective option, but also more sustainable.
3. Colours
Winter weddings are the perfect opportunity to wear warm colours in rich, jewel-like hues. Think wine and champagne tones, emerald green, ruby red, burgundy and navy blue.
4. Accessories
From scarves and shawls, to hats and gloves, winter accessories will keep you warm, while also adding a pop of colour and glamour to your outfit. Add some extra sparkle to your look with eye-catching jewellery, like a statement-necklace, earrings or a brooch.
5. Outerwear
A winter wedding always calls for a warm outer layer. For a timeless and sophisticated look, consider a classic wool coat or pea coat, which will keep you warm and complement any dress or suit underneath. For a more budget-friendly option, consider an elegant faux fur jacket. They come in a variety of styles and colours, and can be found at a fraction of the cost of a real fur jacket.
6. Footwear
Closed-toe shoes are a must for a winter wedding, whether that’s heeled boots, ankle boots or loafers. Make sure they’re comfortable enough to dance in, and will keep your feet warm and dry. If you’re on a budget, consider buying a pair of shoes in a neutral colour, like black or brown, so you can wear them with multiple outfits and on more than one occasion.
Now you’ll be properly prepped for all those winter weddings pencilled into your calendar. Whatever the weather throws at you, you’ll have a guest outfit that’s both sensible and stylish.
From simple, timeless looks and plain fabrics, to chic, colourful styles with luxe embellishments, this year’s weddings are sure to be full of fashion inspiration and ideas. To get a better understanding of the latest trends and must-have looks this wedding season, we reached out to some of the top dressmakers in the industry to get their expert insights and predictions.
The simple look is in this year – from the style to the fabric. “We’re seeing lots of simple designs made from luxurious mikado, satin or crepe,” comments Jo Maloney from A Bridal Story. “Less is more is definitely going to be a key bridal trend.” Elizabeth from Elizabeth Kate Bridal is also noticing more “plain wedding dresses and plain fabrics such as mikado and satin.”
At the same time, bridal fashion is featuring plenty of luxe accessories and detailing. Fross from Fross Wedding Collections Ltd is seeing a trend towards simple gowns accessorised. “For example, lots of our brides love to add bows to their satin gowns.” According to our dressmakers, the most popular fashion element this year is bows, followed by pearls, then feathers, and finally beads. Zera Rowell from Aime Moi Encore says they are “seeing a demand for simpler designs where extra details can be featured such as big bows and lots of pearls, flowers and head pieces. Flower appliques and colour are also very popular!”
Wedding dresses with colour are also en vogue. Over half of the dressmakers we spoke to are seeing wedding dresses in alternative colours to the traditional bridal white. Kate Ashwell from Heartfelt Vintage says they are ‘seeing a huge uplift in the number of requests for colourful dresses’. Donna from DM Bridal Accessories also emphasises seeing ‘dresses with colour’.
As for bridesmaids’ dresses, the most popular colours this year are champagne, earthy tones, and greens (both emerald and sage). Dusty rose, blush pink, dusty blue and navy blue are also trending, particularly as we move into the season of late winter/early spring.
At the other end from simple styles, many of our dressmakers are seeing dramatic statement dresses. Jo Maloney from A Bridal Story comments that “big and bold designs are also trending with dramatic skirts, necklines and sleeve’, while Margo Brittain from Margo Chamberlain Millinery is seeing “puff sleeves, long trains, maximalist styles, and large flower corsages.”
Princess skirts, long or floating trains, long veils, even capes, are in high demand. Kate Ashwell from Heartfelt Vintage attributes this to the popularity of Netflix’s Bridgerton: “The Bridgerton-inspired trends keep on coming!” Jekaterina Domnych from Gold Needle Ltd speaks of an “abundance of uber-chic inspo in the 2023 wedding dress trends, from dramatic ball gowns to colorful wedding gowns to luxe embellishments like bows, feathers, ruffles, gloves, capes, scooped and strapless necklines, high-low hemline ball gowns with over-the-top tiered skirts, decadent fabrics and beads, lingerie-inspired slip wedding dresses.” She also adds that “in 2023 we’ll be seeing more statement veils with 3D elements, sparkles, flowers, prints and pops of colour. Fashion is stepping away from plain tulle and making the veil its own masterpiece and something that is able to express the bride’s style and personality.”
Continuing the Bridgerton theme, the trend towards long, elegant gloves is making a comeback in 2023: our dressmakers unanimously report long gloves, from long tulle gloves to long opera gloves. Amy Money from Amy Money Millinery also comments on the trend of long sleeves, and even detachable sleeves for greater versatility and flexibility throughout the day.
“Split dresses are very on trend”, Zoey Jayaweera from The White Room of Minchinhampton reports. Duduzile Sibanda from Couture & Tiaras Bridal agrees: “We are selling a lot of dresses with a slit.” Split wedding dresses are gaining in popularity over the years because they offer a modern and elegant look, while also being comfortable to dance and move around in. Not to mention that a slit can show off a pair of beautiful shoes!
Many of our dressmakers are seeing a demand for detachable skirts or separate overskirts, as brides increasingly look for versatility and flexibility when it comes to choosing their wedding dress. Fross from Fross Wedding Collections Ltd notes seeing “brides wanting two gowns, daytime and evening looks, or gowns with detachable skirts to create two looks in one!”
For bridesmaids, multi dresses (a.k.a. convertible dresses or infinity dresses) are all the rage. These dresses can be worn in different ways, so bridesmaids can choose the most flattering style for their body type and taste. They can also be worn again and again long after the wedding, making them both practical and cost-effective. Jekaterina Domnych from Gold Needle Ltd lists a range of flexible styles for bridesmaids: “mismatching bridesmaids dresses, cowl neck bridesmaids dresses, velvet bridesmaids dresses, convertible bridesmaids dresses.”
More and more brides are opting to break the mould and wear a non-traditional wedding dress that more truly reflects their own personal style and preferences. Lisa Carrington from Lisa Carrington Couture summarises this trend: “More and more brides are turning to individuality – bespoke instead of mass-produced. I feel trends heading more to personal tastes and not what everyone else is doing, so possibly more quirky and adventurous details will come through.” Nathalie Neuilly from Dressarte Paris agrees: “[There is] great interest towards non-traditional wedding outfits and colours (like black and green in particular)”.
Sustainability is increasingly become a key concern for today’s couples, according to many of our dressmakers. Eve Mannion from Love It Again Bridal has observed that “more couples are becoming eco-conscious about their wedding choices”. Wendy Hook from Vintage Adornments agrees that the eco fashion trend continues to grow with more and more brides opting for sustainable choices when it comes to choosing a dress: “There’s a real move towards more sustainable choices for both cost and environmental reasons. Vintage and nostalgic themes are also having a real influence after the years of the pandemic and then the fuel and economic crises – couples are keen to harken back to happier times and evoke that in their wedding styling.” Popular sustainable options include choosing a dress made from organic, natural or recycled materials; renting a wedding dress; or opting for a vintage or second-hand dress.
Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a bridesmaid, or simply a fashion-savvy wedding guest, these styles, colours and fabrics are sure to make a statement at any wedding this year. You’ve now got all the inspiration and ideas you need to start putting together your own unique look!
From photographers to caterers, to wedding dress designers, the UK is lucky enough to be home to some of the most gifted Black wedding suppliers in the world. The creativity and passion of these artisans and experts are sure to make your day one that you will treasure forever.
At Bridebook we are creating long term action strategies, both internal and external to improve inclusion and diversity within our industry but we know there is a long, long way to go. This list is just our starting off point, which we will be constantly and consistently adding to. In the meantime, we couldn’t recommend the Noire Wedding Edit by Ofe of Studio Oudizo more, for inspiration and an incredibly detailed list of suppliers.
If you’re after relaxed, informal wedding photography that is going to be as creative, quirky and fun as you are, then keep reading! Marni is all about authentic moments; tears of joy, stolen kisses, crazy dancefloor moves and everything in between. She’ll be wherever the action is, getting to know the people you love, so she never misses a moment. If you want a photographer that will feel more like an extra guest then she’s got you covered.
Leesha specialises in emotive and creative wedding photography for quirky couples in love. Her photography style definitely reflects her love for all things artsy and romantic, as well as being incredibly detail-oriented. Leesha sees the beauty not only in the big moments but the little things too, that really tell the story of your special day!
Joséphine’s love for photography stems from her love of connecting with people and showcasing their genuine emotion. Both of these are key elements of candid wedding photography, and they’re the reason she specialises in laid back wedding photography for fun and creative couples. That means that there’ll be no awkward moments or cheesy poses – she’ll be snapping all the crucial little moments of connection and emotion, and she’ll do it as part of the flow of the day.
Bubble Bar Caravan is a unique and beautifully converted caravan bar, perfect for intimate weddings. They serve a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, from IPA’s, Lager and Ciders on draught to bespoke Gin & Tonics, Prosecco and cocktails. They pride themselves on their friendly, energetic service that you and your guests are sure to love, as well as being an incredible backdrop for photos.
The Little Cake Garden specialises in creating bespoke wedding cakes and other sweet treats. They create some of the most stunning and whimsical cakes we’ve ever seen, as well as incredible dessert tables. Being hopeless romantics, they deliver designs that truly capture and reflect your desires. They are dedicated to quality and tailor-made creations, with all of their products made from scratch, using only the very highest quality ingredients.
The Indulgent Sugar Plum is a concept bakery & lifestyle store that produces luxurious handcrafted cakes and confectionery. They are not afraid to cross boundaries and have even been featured on Channel 4’s ‘Extreme Cake Makers! From the first moment you receive your cake, until the moment you eat it – they aim for their goods to ‘inspire your conversations’. Through the creation process the draw on inspiration from your visuals, colour scheme & themes to create a cake that’s uniquely for you and your partner.
With over 13 years of baking experience, M+H Cakes are delicious and handmade with love from their kitchen in London from start to finish. Their attention to detail is second to none, and they’ll ensure that you get your dream wedding cake. Each cake is bespoke, handmade and a true work of art.
Naomi Deru Bridal creates dresses for the contemporary bride with a modern take on style and silhouettes. Every single piece bearing the Naomi Deru Bridal label is handcrafted from scratch in Kent, with every gown being impeccably tailored, perfectly executed and with beautiful detail. Naomi makes sure that each dress is a carefully thought through collaboration with the bride, making sure the bride’s unique style and personality is reflected.
Kahmune’s aim was to redefine the word ‘nude’ and they have certainly succeeded. Just as ‘nude’ plasters are not a one size fits all, neither are shoes! Brides and bridesmaids should be able to find shoes that blend seamlessly with their skin tone, and Kahmune has delivered on their promise, blending style and comfort, with flats and heels in 10 beautiful skin shades.
Queen of Hearts Floral Design is a London based luxury floral studio in the heart of North London. Founder Bilen Zeremariam has been an Interior Designer for the past twelve years and brings forth an extensive knowledge in colour, texture, shape and interior styling. Bilen decided to pursue her passion for flowers after creating her own wedding arrangements, which led her to learn the art of floristry. Today, Bilen takes pride in creating opulent, memorable and dramatic floral displays that transform weddings & events in London, throughout the UK and abroad.
Hazel is a passionate floral artist and designer with a varied and rich background in the creative arts. Her style is free with an enriching take on colour, form and texture. After a childhood surrounded by nature in south-east England, Hazel has had a lifelong appreciation for the natural world, which is a clear inspiration in her work. Training at world-class florist McQueens, Hazel continually translates the world, taking inspiration from art, fashion and architecture. Her work is a love letter to nature with creative choices and combinations creating her fresh and unexpected designs.
After weeks of being inside, forced apart from our nearest and dearest, weddings seem like a lifetime away. And yet, the day will come when life will be full of loved ones, laughter and celebration once more. We can expect some significant effects on weddings to come later this year and into 2021.
The 2021 wedding season will not be without its challenges. With 64% of 2020 weddings expected to be pushed-back, 2021 is set to be a busy one. Couples will have to make quick decisions on dates, to get first dibs on the date they want. Guests can expect many more clashes, and midweek weddings than ever, making things a little more challenging. On the bright side, we’ll have a way to use up all of those saved holiday days…
Post-coronavirus, we can expect that weddings will be bigger, bolder, and even more full of meaning. Everyone is longing for the days of confetti, cake, and bubbly, and we have the scoop on the trends you can expect to see post-lockdown.
Digital Guests:
One thing that has come from this period of change and online socialising is the normalisation of online meeting services, such as zoom. Travel restrictions may persist for some time, and we expect two-thirds of weddings post-lockdown to have at least some guests attending virtually. For elderly relatives, as well as friends and family living in far-flung destinations, digital access will be a great way for them to still be able to attend these special moments, even if just remotely.
Courageous Fashion Choices:
After what feels like months of wearing the same pair of leggings and jumpers, everyone will be jumping at the chance to dress up and look their best. We can expect adventurous guest fashion, with brighter, more fashion-forward dresses and bolder jewellery choices.
It won’t just be guests making bold statements; we are seeing a 50% increase in the popularity of statement veils (probably thanks to Mrs. Bieber). We can expect to see many more brides making this trend their own, embroidering their veils with meaningful quotes or even initials. Alongside an increase in statement veils, we are also seeing a rise in catwalk-inspired statement sleeves and pearl-embellished dresses, seen at the likes of Dior and Chanel.
Classic Blue was announced as the Pantone colour of the year, so expect a great revival in the something blue, something borrowed tradition, featuring this beautiful shade. Think blue in newly trending hair barrettes, jewelry and even the bases of high heels!
Post-credit-crunch, boho brides were on the rise, and this trend is set to explode once more. Many 2021 brides will be going for the ethereal look, with wearable florals, and bridal crowns taking center stage.
Creative Wedding Decor:
If you thought wedding creativity had reached its peak, just you wait. With more time than ever to d think about wedding details, we can expect a move away from some more traditional elements to more creative and modern takes on decor. Some creative couples will be changing up the traditional seating charts, instead painting table lists on flower-filled glass boxes. Floral hoops have also been growing in popularity, with growing in popularity by 80% this year, alongside hanging floral decorations and flower-filled aisles.
Post quarantine, there will be a revival of the Do-it-yourself Bride and Groom. Around three-quarters of weddings will include some DIY elements, as couples cut costs where they can (and have more time on their hands!), with DIY-couples saving a combined £20million. We are looking forward to personalised table settings, wedding favours, and decor, such as photo displays.
Wedding Food Trends:
With so many couples caring more than ever about sustainability and the environment, it is no wonder that there has been a shift to a focus on menu seasonality, as well as plastic and waste reduction. With many couples aiming to create as little environmental impact as possible, the increase in zero-plastic and reduced-waste weddings could save more than 15,000 tonnes of wedding waste from ending up in landfills (that’s 100 blue whales!). From invitations made of recycled paper, vegan menus and leftover composting, we can safely assume that the sustainable wedding trend is here to stay and will explode in 2021. We imagine many couples will be donating leftover flowers to local hospitals and hospices, which hopefully will be a trend that will stick.
As for the sweet stuff, we predict a shift away from the traditional and pricy wedding cakes that often remain uneaten, to more exciting offerings. Unique grab and go dessert displays, such as doughnut walls will come into their own (there are almost 100,000 posts under the hashtag #donutwall on Instagram!).
Weddings are all about individuality and celebrating who the couple truly is. We are expecting food and drink that pay homage to the backgrounds of the couple, whether that is custom messages in fortune cookies or cocktails made with a type of Slovakian cherry liquor. More and more couples will be selecting super-personal menus, such as family favourite desserts, or cocktails named after people and places that mean something to the couple and their families.
Party Central:
After the storm of COVID, when weddings begin again, they are set to go on till the early hours. Where there is partying, there is midnight feasting. Guests can expect to be sustained with anything from sweet treat grazing tables, to late-night pasta pots to keep them dancing the night away.
Missing happy hour has become a national tragedy, and it’s coming back in a big way – think serve-yourself prosecco taps, experimental cocktails, and boozy popsicles like frozen rose, mimosas, and mojitos making their way onto a dancefloor near you.
It’s only natural that with happy hour, comes confidence in dance ability. Learning a Tiktok dance became a quarantine right of passage, and newly married couples will be eager to show off their new fancy footwork. Be prepared for some seriously questionable, but hilarious first dances.
Registry Remix:
Many couples feel that this period has put things into perspective, as well as made many questioning what gifts they can live without. Cutlery and crystal bowls are a nice memento, but lots of couples are forgoing the regular registry list, asking for experiences, not things. More will be asking for starter funds for a new home, a pet, or for their honeymoons. Charity registries will also become the norm, with more and more couples wanting to donate to a cause they feel passionate about.
Here are some more wedding related articles you’ll love:
Popularity has always been a surefire way to secure business; and online popularity – which translates to reviews – is one of the most powerful ways to show the world you’re liked, respected and worth investing in.
Reviews are particularly important in the wedding industry.
In today’s world, we Google before be book, buy or visit.
And just a few positive reviews can reassure couples you’re worth checking out, whereas negative reviews or no reviews at all will fill couples with dread and suspicion.
But why take our word for it?
We’ve reached out to Bridebook Award Winners 2018 – that is, the most impressive, talented and successful wedding makeup, dress, menswear, jewellery and accessories suppliers we’re working with right now – and asked them to explain in their own words how powerful they believe reviews are in helping them reach award-winning status.
Bejouled – Bridebook’s Jeweller of the Year
What are the top 3 benefits to having reviews in your personal experience?
Benefit 1 – I think the biggest benefit to having reviews is that it shows potential customers that you are a quality supplier, with loads of happy previous customers! I think many consumers will look at reviews before contacting any wedding suppliers as they can trust what others have said and look to their experience with that company.
Benefit 2 – Having great reviews also lets us know that we are doing a great job! There is nothing better than seeing your customer showing off their sparkling jewels, over the moon with the finished result. One of our favorite parts of the job is getting positive feedback and making our customers happy makes everything worth it.
Benefit 3 – A great benefit of reviews is having all of our wonderful Thank You cards on display in our Boutique which shows customers when they walk through the door that we are loved by some many previous customers. We have had many say that seeing all of the lovely cards sealed the deal for them!
How does the review process work in the UK wedding jewellery sector and can you identify any areas that could be improved?
I think most reviews these days come from Facebook which is great as it’s a platform that most people are active on. However, we try to push reviews across all our platforms such as Google, Bridebook, Vows Awards etc so we have great reviews across the board.
The only downside to the review process is that sometimes you can receive a negative review from someone who has never even been in contact with the company and that can impact your overall rating as a whole which can in turn impact the opinion of potential customers with regards to your brand. I think if a better screening process was put in place to validate reviews it would stop this from happening.
Dani Roberts Makeup – Bridebook’s Bridal Beauty Therapist of the Year
What are the top 3 benefits to having reviews in your personal experience?
Real customer feedback so that I can improve the service I provide in the future.
Gives future clients reassurance and an insight to what I can provide for them on their big day.
Shows your experience in the industry and that you’re a reputable business.
How do you generate bridal beauty bookings?
I currently use social media and post photos of my work as advertisement. I also have a lot of bookings through word of mouth and recommendations.
Do online reviews play a part when couples contact you via word of mouth referral?
I think they do as I direct them to my website and Bridebook profile so that they can get an idea of my style and pricing, view my work and so that they will be able to read reviews for that extra level of reassurance.
Sarah’s Wedding Boutique – Bridebook’s Wedding Dress & Accessories Supplier of the Year
How does the process of review giving / collecting work in the wedding dress and accessories sector?
Reviews are usually given following a purchase or once the bride has become a ‘Mrs’. This enables the bride to give genuine feedback on our Bridebook profile based on their wedding dress buying experience from start to finish.
Is it more important to win approval and good feedback from fellow suppliers rather than brides? Why?
Approval from both suppliers and brides are equally important with regards to working relationships and productivity. Both go hand in hand in terms of business success and a positive attitude is infectious! We have a great rapport with everyone involved. I believe this is an important strength which should never be underestimated.
What are the top 3 benefits to having reviews in your personal experience?
It is important to receive feedback from our customers to know we are doing things right.
To promote customer and shop awareness.
To boost staff morale and confidence.
Whitfield & Ward – Bridebook’s Menswear Supplier of the Year
What are the top 3 benefits to having reviews in your personal experience?
Reviews give our customers an insight into how we operate and what to expect when they come in to see us.
And those digitally devoted information absorbers are now demanding a different approach from wedding suppliers. They’re looking for an altogether more open wedding market. They want you to overshare examples of weddings you’ve worked on – but don’t hound them or they’ll swipe left.
They might not have tons of time for you but they sure as hell want you to lay all of your cards on their perfectly designed wedding breakfast table.
#itscomplicated
So here’s the rundown of exactly what engaged and soon-to-be-wed couples of today expect from their wedding entourage for the approximate 20 months that they’ll be engaged and working with you…
1.Be online when your couples are
Unsurprisingly, the most popular time of the week for wedding planning is after work, with 63% of couples stating that evenings were the time they were most likely to be online.
Bridebook has discovered that the majority of enquiries are sent between 7pm-9pm so as a wedding supplier, you need to be active at these times. And of course the faster you are able to respond and interact with these enquiries the higher your conversion rate will be.
Where possible, keep an eye on your inbox over the weekend as Saturday (40%) and Sunday (37%) also show higher than average wedding planning activity.
2.Contact couples in the right way
For yet another year running, email is the preferred method of communication for initial enquiries (85%) and ongoing contact (88%) between couples and suppliers.
Interestingly though, half of couples also want in-person contact with the suppliers they’re working with.
However, you choose to answer your initial enquiry, remember to ask your couples how they would like to be contacted from there on and ask when is best for them in case evenings and weekends don’t suit.
3.Never underestimate the importance of reviews and recommendations
For yet another year running, couples have rated reviews and recommendations from friends and family (71%) as the most valuable source of information when booking wedding suppliers.
It is now more important than ever that you showcase your past work and triumphs wherever and whenever possible because 76% of couples read 8 or more reviews before booking a wedding supplier.
More specifically, 59% of couples said that they wanted to read online reviews from couples you’ve worked with in the past before making a decision on whether to contact you.
4.Understand how couples are choosing to spend their wedding budget
Did you know that the national average wedding spend in the UK in 2017 was £17,913 – excluding honeymoon? In London, this figure rises to £31,837.
So what are these big spending Millennial’s actually doing with their wedding budget?
The good news is that the money being spent on suppliers has increased by an average of 12% year on year. Consider this when reviewing your prices and ensure that you’re still pricing competitively and are not underselling your services by pricing too low.
Marquee hire (24%) food and drink (23%) and venue dressing (22%) are areas of spending that grew the most year on year.
5.Couples need interaction
The wedding industry is an unknown for most couples when they first dip their toe in our world and as such, we should be willing to guide them through the process.
This is the most important day of their lives and they are spending a lot of money so you have to prove your worth and show them that your business is worth investing in from the get go.
Be their friend and their partner throughout the wedding planning process. By communicating in the right way and offering the right kind of advice without being pushy you’ll ensure that couples have confidence in you and trust your expertise.
6.Couples depend on your photos
It is so important that you show couples what you do and what you offer with real, visual examples.
Keep your website and Bridebook profile up to date with the latest and greatest photos from weddings you’re most proud of.
Wedding venues – make sure that you’re showcasing great quality external and internal photos. If you aren’t blessed with acres of glorious grounds take photographs of other assets that surround you – whether rolling countryside or big city hotspots.
Makeup artists, wedding stylists, florists – photograph your work yourself and ask photographers and videographers for permission to use a couple of their photos or stills from the day (remembering to credit them).
Try to evoke a “that could be us” feeling with every visual you share.
7.Diversity is important to Millennial couples
Diversity is a problem that we are facing in the industry and we as suppliers should be tackling it head-on.
We live in one of the most diverse countries in the world and to ignore that is to ignore and potentially offend your potential customers.
As a start, be gender inclusive and try not to use phrases such as ‘normally a bride and groom have this or do that’. Consider your use of ‘bride and groom’ in the content you write and speak, using the term ‘partner’ or ‘couple’ instead.
We should be making every couple feel confident, comfortable and unique.
Wedding suppliers; ask yourselves…
…are you working with millennials or against them?
Are you interacting with them at the time and in the ways that they want you to?
Are you showcasing your business at it’s best – including reviews and beautiful images to really sell how great you are?
Bridebook can help you adjust to what Millennial couples want and need. Set up your own Bridebook page now to start promoting your business in a quick, easy and effortless way.
Looking for more wedding industry trends and couple insights? Head to the Bridebook Business Hub, the home of wedding industry knowledge.
Deciding what you’re wearing on your wedding day is hard enough – let alone deciding what everyone else will wear! But even though we can’t promise it’ll be totally smooth sailing, these three questions will get you and your bridesmaids well on your way to your dream dresses.
1. What Colour Will Fit With My Wedding Theme?
If you’ve already decided on a wedding theme (and we highly recommend you do), you’ll have a much easier time of it when it comes to picking out your bridesmaids dresses. Even picking out two or three colours will help narrow down your options – or knowing whether you’re going for something more casual or formal. On the other hand, you could start off by thinking about the time of year. If you’re having a winter wedding, for example, you’ll probably be discounting anything that gives you “sundress” vibes. On the other hand, you’re unlikely to want to go for dresses using velvets or furs in the height of summer.
2. What Suits My Bridesmaids?
Okay, so colour’s sorted – now what kind of style? This is when you’ll want to spend some time thinking about your bridesmaids and what suits them. The same dress is unlikely to look as good on your tallest friend as on your shortest. In our opinion, the easiest thing to do is to let your bridesmaids pick out their own dresses – with guidelines, of course! That way, your 5’10 sister can stun in a silk slip dress – but your pint-sized bestie still looks super cute in their A-line minidress. If you definitely want all your bridesmaids to wear the same dress, look for a “compromise dress” that looks just about okay on everyone. What you want to avoid at all costs is choosing a dress that looks spectacular on one of your bridesmaids – but terrible on everyone else.
3. Do Your Bridesmaids Like It?
At the end of the day, it’s your wedding – but your bridesmaids are some of the most important people in your life, so you want to be sure they’re happy wearing whatever you’ve picked out. Ideally, make a day of it and take all your bridesmaids on a shopping trip. At the very least, though, send them a link to the dress you’ve chosen before you commit to buying it. After all, you want everyone smiling in the photos!
We couldn’t be more thrilled to announce the Winners and Highly Commended suppliers of the Bridebook.co.uk Wedding Awards 2017!
With so many incredible and talented suppliers across our Bridebook family, picking the final winners was difficult to say the least. So we’d like to extend our sincerest warm wishes and thanks for all of those who participated – the wedding industry wouldn’t be where it is today without you!
Now, without further ado – the 2017 winners! Huge congratulations to all! (And if you’re an engaged couple, there’s no better place to start your wedding supplier search than with this fabulous list of award winners!)
Congratulations to all the winners and highly commended! If you’re an engaged couple, there truly is no better place to start than with this fabulous list of Bridebook suppliers. Be sure to check out their profiles to book these award winners for your own wedding!
Whether you’ve dreamed of yourself in a beautiful, flowing white dress since you were five-years-old, or you’ve only started to even consider it post-ring, the bridal dress is often a major component of a wedding. There are so many styles available that searching for and trying on dresses can be a long, fun and exciting journey for both the bride and the entire bridal party.
Many wedding dresses are made with premium materials and involve complex and intricate designs. As a result, the perfect dress naturally comes with a corresponding premium price tag. In the UK, the average amount spent on a wedding dress is £1,300, though it can often be double or even triple this. When you consider that the average cost of a wedding is £20,775, this may sound like a lot, but it’s proportionate with the cost of many other professional wedding services, including photographers and videographers.
However, there are plenty of ways to save money on a wedding dress. In this post, we’re going to explore the tips and tricks you can use to help you stick to your budget while still getting to wear a gorgeous gown on your big day.
Wedding dresses come with a premium price tag for several reasons:
They’re made using very high-quality materials
They can come with complex and intricate adornments
They’re often handmade by a highly skilled and experienced dressmaker
They’re highly customised both in terms of style and fit
It’s tempting to choose a well-known, high-end designer to mark the occasion
They usually involve tailored service and consultations to get it just right
As well as these, wedding dresses have great sentimental value and are massively important to many brides. As a result, many brides-to-be are willing to pay premium prices to get the dress of their dreams. After all, this isn’t any old day. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, which deserves an outfit like no other.
Do you need to wear a bridal dress on your wedding day?
While a white dress is traditionally worn by a bride in western countries specifically, you by no means have to wear one on your own wedding day. What you wear at your wedding is down to you, the style and theme of your wedding, and any religious traditions you may wish to stick to.
A white dress may be what many brides choose to wear, but there are plenty who don’t and opt for an alternative instead. Examples of these include:
A non-traditional dress, which may feature colours or be black
Religious or cultural attire, such as a saree, kimono or hanbok
Trouser suits or jumpsuits, which are stylish and modern but still elegant
A two-piece ensemble, such as a skirt and top
Many non-bridal dresses can also be expensive, but are often far more affordable than traditional dresses worn by brides in the West.
If you’re keen to wear a traditional dress on your big day, there are plenty of ways to save money if you’re willing to compromise a little. Below are 12 ways you can make a saving when buying your wedding dress. And for more tips, check out our ultimate guide to saving money on your wedding.
Have you always wanted a stunning Vera Wang gown to get married in but aren’t sure your budget can stretch that far? Well, did you know that most wedding dress designers have a cheaper line available at bargain prices? That means you can go to your favourite designer and not have to break the bank to buy a dress. And for reference, for Vera Wang, it’s the White collection.
2. Look out for sample sales
When it comes to gorgeous designer gowns, boutiques and designers themselves will host sample sales at the end of seasons. You can find some absolute gems hidden among the endless racks; so as long as you’re willing to forego the typical bridal boutique shopping experience and service, they’re definitely worth it. Contrary to what some believe, the dresses are rarely permanently damaged – although they sometimes come with minor easily repairable flaws. In sample sales, all sales are final, which means no returns – so inspect your potential dress carefully for any imperfections before you buy.
Why not consider a preloved gown from a local charity shop? Remember, most brides will only wear their dress once and only for half a day, so the majority of the dresses you’ll find in a charity shop will be as good as new. It’s also a lovely sentiment to wear a dress that’s previously given so much joy to a happy couple. The only thing to bear in mind is that it’s unlikely you’ll find a dress that fits you perfectly, so you’ll have to take it for alterations and be prepared to compromise.
A great tip to save some pennies is to buy a dress that’s made ready to wear. It may need a little bit of tweaking, which can ramp up the cost, but the price of an off-the-hanger dress will generally be much lower than that of a made-to-measure gown. This approach can also save time, as it doesn’t require many months of creation and fittings. That said, if the creation and fitting experience is important to you, and you want a bespoke gown, you can’t expect to pay cheap off-the-rack prices. That level of service, and quality, is naturally going to cost. So it’s important to weigh up what’s most important to you when shopping around.
If you’re having a vintage-themed wedding, vintage shops are great places to find stunning dresses in a great variety of styles. In fact, you might not even buy a dress that was intended for a wedding at all. White Gatsby-esque evening dresses can look just as impressive as a specially made gown. When browsing, make sure to check the dresses for signs of wear and tear (especially on the hem and the armpits) and think of any potential alterations you might want to make ahead of buying. Then, you can put your bridesmaids in dresses of a complementary style.
This one might be a bit of a stretch, but if you happen to know a fantastic seamstress or dressmaker, you’re one lucky bride. It’s sometimes cheaper to have a dress made by a seamstress (especially if they’re not that experienced), and even more so if you ask for mates’ rates.
Many high-street retailers, like John Lewis and Next, have a beautiful range of bridal dresses that are fabulous, elegant and – most importantly, if you’re on a budget – affordable. Dresses from popular high-street brands can cost as low as £60, but make sure you shop early in case you need to take it for minor alterations. And again, weigh up your priorities, and manage your expectations. A high-street dress is unlikely to rival a bespoke custom-made designer dress, but if you’re on a budget, may be the best option for you personally.
It might not be something you immediately think of as an option, but did you know that, along with wedding suits, you can also rent wedding dresses? If you’re excited to wear a gorgeous, flowing dress but can’t stretch your budget enough to cover the cost, renting can get you into that perfect bridal gown. The only downside is that you’ll have to give it back, so won’t be able to hold on to it for sentimental reasons. Plus, just make sure you’re aware of the return policy, because if you return it late, the fees can sting.
As we’ve already covered, one of the reasons wedding dresses can be so expensive is because of the high-quality materials and craftsmanship that go into creating them. So, one great way to lower the cost is by choosing a dress with a simple or minimalist design. The fewer intricate details there are, the less work it will generally take, which can help keep costs down.
Sometimes it can be more affordable to hire a seamstress – particularly if it’s a seamstress with less experience. Of course, a seamstress with decades of experience will produce a fantastic dress, but it will come at a price. By using a less-experienced and local seamstress, you’ll get a beautiful bespoke dress but not have to pay as much. Also, if they’re local (and outside of London) you won’t have to pay for shipping or as many travel costs.
Online retailers, such as ASOS, can have a wide range of dresses to suit a selection of tastes, styles and budgets. The cost of a dress will often start around £100, but if you keep your eye out for a sale you might be able to pick up a stunning dress for as much as half this amount. The main risk is that you might not like it as much in person as you did when you saw the images, so make sure you know the returns policy before purchasing.
And again, the quality is not going to match a custom-made ensemble, in the same way that the experience of browsing online will be vastly different to trying on dresses in an independent boutique with your bridal party. Part of the service involved in choosing a bridal boutique is getting fitted by a professional with years of experience and benefiting from their expert advice through tailored, one-on-one consultations. But if a finding a cheap and serviceable dress is your only priority, this is of course a perfectly reasonable option.
Know you absolutely want to wear a certain dress, which means that renting, borrowing or buying online are out of the question? You can still splurge and buy an extravagant dress, because there’s always the option of selling your dress once you’re done. Unless you’re particularly sentimental or want to pass it on as an heirloom, sites such as Vinted, Stillwhite or even Facebook Marketplace are great. You more than likely won’t get your money back, but you could still get a huge chunk of it, which you could then reinvest into your honeymoon.
