Tag: Wedding Day

The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Insurance: 2024 Edition

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but it’s also one of the most exciting moments in your life. Unfortunately, as with life in general, things can sometimes go wrong, and that’s where wedding insurance comes in. This isn’t exactly the most exciting of topics – many brides and grooms don’t even consider it. No creative DIY ideas, or dreamy dress inspiration.

Wedding insurance is therefore one of several hidden wedding costs that many couples overlook. But it’s one of the most important parts of wedding planning, and well worth considering. In our ultimate guide to wedding insurance, we’ll cover everything you need to know about wedding insurance, including what it covers, what it doesn’t cover, how much it costs, why you should have it, and which insurance providers we suggest you consider. Read on for our advice and top tips.

What is wedding insurance?

Photo © W&K Event Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Wedding insurance (also known as event insurance or special event insurance), is a type of insurance policy that provides financial protection in case something goes wrong either leading up to the wedding or on the day itself. It shouldn’t be confused with liability insurance for wedding suppliers (a separate type of wedding business insurance policy that covers professional suppliers – including photographers, caterers, florists and wedding planners). 

The way wedding insurance works depends on what you’re claiming for. You won’t always necessarily receive a lump sum in compensation. For things like a torn wedding dress or dead flowers, you’ll usually get a small payout that will cover the cost of the item. But in the case of venue closure, your provider may simply pay for a new venue directly. Remember that claims come with an excess fee. That means you’ll receive the full amount minus the cost of any excess.

Do I need wedding insurance?

Photo © Harry Richards Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Wedding insurance is very much worth factoring into your overall wedding budget. We suggest you consider having at least basic cover in place in the majority of cases.

Reasons you should consider getting wedding insurance include:

  1. Your wedding costs a lot: Because wedding insurance provides financial protection, it could help save you loads of money. Weddings are pricey affairs, after all, with the average cost of a wedding in the UK having risen to £20,775 (£23,885 including the ring and honeymoon).
  2. You have items to protect: Wedding insurance could help you recover or replace important items such as wedding attire, rental equipment, or even wedding gifts. It’s a great way to protect items that will make your wedding day the way you want it.
  3. You want peace of mind: Wedding insurance could help you avoid an enormous amount of stress. Knowing you have financial protection means you can enjoy planning your wedding and celebrating your big day without worrying about what could go wrong.
  4. You want an affordable option: Wedding insurance policies are generally affordable, with coverage options and excesses that can be tailored to fit your wedding budget.

 

Reasons you might not want to get wedding insurance include:

  1. Low risk of cancellation or issues: If you’re having a small and low-key wedding, with few guests and minimal expenses, wedding insurance might not be necessary or worthwhile.
  2. Alternative postponement/cancellation options: It’s always worth checking with your venues and suppliers what their specific policies on postponing or cancelling your wedding are, and how much extra this costs. Then you can accurately and confidently insure any remaining elements.

What does wedding insurance cover?

Photo © The Wedding Photography House | See their Bridebook profile

Wedding insurance covers many aspects of the wedding. The most important thing it covers is the possibility of having to cancel the wedding due to uncontrollable circumstances. This includes injury to the bride, groom or close relative. Also normally included would be sudden closure of the venue due to financial failure or a fire or damage at the venue.

In the circumstance that you had to cancel the wedding due to any of these circumstances, most insurers would pay the amount that you have spent on deposits in booking suppliers and venues up to the sum insured, and also what you are contractually obliged to pay in the event of cancellation. Make sure to check you are happy with the sum you choose to insure (typically the full cost of the wedding in the event of a last-minute cancellation) before you take out your policy.

Apart from having to cancel the wedding, there are several other (smaller) things that could potentially go wrong on your wedding day that would be covered by wedding insurance. When it comes to the loss or damage of items, the cost of the relevant items would be paid by the insurer.

Every wedding policy is a little different, though, so we recommend checking the small print before signing up. However, these are the things most wedding insurance policies typically cover:

  • Cancellation due to illness, injury, accident or death: This includes you and your partner, as well as your close relatives as defined by the individual policy (unless it’s linked to a pre-existing medical condition). The same people may also be covered if they’re unexpectedly called for jury service or posted overseas in the military – though very few policies cover this, so be sure to check with your provider.
  • Cancellation due to unexpected extreme weather: If over half of your guests can’t make your wedding due to extreme weather, you should be covered. Be sure to check the small print though, as many insurance policies differ slightly on this. If you’re hosting an outdoor wedding, consider also adding extra cover as an add-on. This will protect you if on-the-day severe weather conditions ruin the experience, for example, a thunderstorm.
  • Venue damage or closure: This protects you if your wedding venue becomes unusable and can no longer honour your booking due to damage or closure. For example, through floods, fires or financial problems. This usually comes under “cancellation cover” in the insurance document, and would pay for another venue. It covers damage to wedding marquees that belong to the venue owner, as well as damage to fixed, permanents structures part of their property.
  • Third party marquee cover: This is usually an optional add-on that protects you against damage to a marquee erected on land that belongs to someone other than the marquee owner. It covers the structure itself plus anything inside like tables and chairs.
  • Supplier failure:  This protects you if your suppliers fail to provide the agreed services due to financial failure, and would pay for a replacement. It can sometimes include a damaged wedding cake, but only if it’s damaged in your possession (as opposed to if the cake maker themselves supplied a damaged cake). Be sure to get a written agreement with your suppliers when booking (as this will be vital to your claim), and check which suppliers your individual policy covers (as this can vary). Most policies don’t typically cover you in the case of supplier no-shows. That is, if a supplier cancels at the last minute and you need to rebook someone else (potentially at a much higher price). Only certain suppliers like photographers and wedding transports may be covered under different sections of cover.
  • Photography or video faults: This protects you against damage to the film or a technical fault that means your wedding photos or video can’t be printed or developed. Most policies will typically pay for a photographer to re-shoot your photos or footage with your wedding party. Check if your cover also includes payment towards the costs needed to do this (outfit hire, travel expenses, necessary meals and lodging, venue hire and accessories). Note that simply not liking the photos or footage won’t count as a valid reason to make a claim!
  • Lost, stolen or damaged items: This typically includes your wedding dress, wedding rings, wedding cake, wedding flowers, and decor. Note that it doesn’t cover your engagement rings (which you’ll need to add to your home insurance). Be sure to also check your individual policy for any caveats. For example, flowers and cake might not be covered after the reception.
  • Lost, stolen or damaged gifts: Often overlooked when it comes to wedding insurance, wedding gifts are collectively very valuable, and well worth insuring for peace of mind. For stolen gifts specifically, you’ll have to report them to the police to make a claim.
  • Personal liability: This covers you and your partner in the case of accidental damage to the wedding venue (think red wine spillages on carpets, or fire damage from cigarette ends), or injury to a third party (like slipping on the dancefloor, or spilling a hot drink on a guest). It doesn’t cover accidents caused by your guests.
  • Public liability: This is usually an optional add-on, requiring you to upgrade your insurance. It works just like personal liability, but covers accidents caused by your guests too.

What doesn’t wedding insurance cover?

Photo © Paul Swift Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Hopefully you’re not too worried about your partner bailing on the day, because, just to be clear, wedding insurance doesn’t cover cold feet. There are also some other situations it doesn’t cover.

See our list below. For some of these, you may be able to upgrade your basic plan to provide extra cover, so be sure to check the small print to see exactly what is and isn’t included.

  • Cold feet: If you or your partner have a change of heart, you won’t be covered.
  • Minor reasons: You won’t be covered for any minor issues or incidents. For example, if one of your table centrepieces gets damaged, you don’t like your wedding photos, or you have an argument with one of your guests.
  • Pre-existing conditions: This includes any underlying medical conditions (though you may be able to upgrade your basic plan to include this).
  • Financial difficulties: You won’t be covered if you can no longer afford the wedding. The exception is redundancy (though your policy may require you to have been made redundant a certain length of time after taking it out). You also won’t be covered if you’re ill with a pre-existing condition on a basic insurance plan (but can usually upgrade to include this).
  • Damage due to negligence: If you leave important items like your wedding gifts unattended for an unreasonable length of time, you won’t be covered.
  • Deliberate acts of damage: If you cause deliberate damage to your venue or other wedding items (like hack away at your cake before the official cake-cutting), you won’t be covered.

How much does wedding insurance cost?

Photo © John Hope Photography | See their Bridebook profile

The cost of wedding insurance in the UK varies depending on the value of your wedding and on what you want covered. It can cost anywhere from £27 for a basic policy of £3,000 of cover, and up to £600 or even more for the most comprehensive cover. It goes without saying that the larger and more elaborate the wedding (i.e. the more guests you have, and the more expensive items you choose to include), the more you’ll have to pay. For extras like pre-existing medical conditions, insuring an outdoor wedding, having a separate marquee, or insuring ceremonial swords, you’ll need to pay a premium.

For cancellation cover between £20,000 and £30,0000, you can expect to pay £100-150. That’s more than enough to cover the average cost of a wedding in the UK. The super cheap £20 policies are certainly affordable, but may be of little value if they don’t pay out the sort of money you’d need to replace or compensate for any parts of your wedding that don’t go to plan.

What’s the best wedding insurance to buy?

Photo © Andy Sidders Photography | See their Bridebook profile

To begin comparing the best deals on the market and find the best wedding insurance policy for you, you’ll need to firstly come up with an approximate cost of your wedding. Bridebook’s handy personalised budget planner tool can help you do just that – without the need for a spreadsheet. You’ll also need to note down any extras you need or want cover for, so you can factor in any optional add-ons. You can then start researching and comparing the most compatible policies.

Make sure you take the time to examine what you’re covered for, including any excesses and insurance limits. One of the most important things to look carefully at is the terms of “supplier failure”. These are the main people you’ll be relying on for your ceremony and reception, so you wouldn’t want to risk going without. You should also look into policies particularly carefully if your wedding plans have any added complications, like having your ceremony and reception on different days, or if your wedding is taking place abroad.

Comparison sites like Compare Wedding Insurance are a good place to start for comparing a range of wedding insurer rates and inclusions. To compare rates for your own specific requirements, we recommend checking out MoneySuperMarket’s personalised comparison creator.

There are several wedding insurance providers in the UK, each with their own unique policies and coverage limits. Some of the most popular specialist insurers include:

When should I take my wedding insurance out?

Photo © Hattie Studios | See their Bridebook profile

It’s best to sort out your wedding insurance as soon as possible, ideally before you start paying towards your wedding. The earlier the better, as the cost stays the same regardless of when you book it. Plus the sooner you have it, the sooner you’re covered, which means none of your wedding money will be at risk at any point (besides the amount set as an excess by your provider).

You can take out cover up to 30 months ahead of your big day. That means coverage in the case of venue closure or family illness months or even a year in advance. But even if you’re months into your planning and have already made deposits and booked your suppliers, it’s not too late! As soon as you take out cover for your wedding, any payments you’ve already made may be covered as well. This does depend on the provider though. Some providers, including WedCover, InsureMyDay and CoverMyWedding, only cover deposits paid up to 30 days before the purchase of the policy.

Can I purchase wedding insurance if I’m getting married abroad?

Photo © Ebourne Images | See their Bridebook profile

Standard UK wedding insurance policies don’t typically cover weddings abroad, so always double-check before purchasing or look into finding a specialist insurance policy for destination weddings. Wedinsure, along with Dreamsaver and a few others, helpfully cover weddings abroad, so check them out if you’re looking to tie the knot overseas. 

How can I reduce the risk of claiming on wedding insurance?

Photo © Tom Cullen Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Wedding insurance is a great way to protect your investment in your wedding day, but obviously you want to reduce the risk of things going wrong. Here are a few top tips:

  • Choose your suppliers well: Make sure your suppliers are experienced and reliable. Research them thoroughly by reading reviews, checking qualifications, getting recommendations from friends and family members, and meeting them face-to-face.
  • Read your contracts carefully: Make sure you know what you’re agreeing to with your suppliers and what’s covered by their insurance policies. Also check the policies of your wedding venue, like their cancellation policy and any restrictions on alcohol or open flames.
  • Check in with your suppliers often: Keep in touch with your suppliers throughout your wedding planning – communication is absolutely key. If you’re both on the same page, then things are less likely to go wrong at the last minute.
  • Have a Plan B: Have a backup plan in the case of unexpected events (like weather, illness, or other on-the-day emergencies). Ask your suppliers if they have anyone in their network who might be able to step in and help deliver an alternative service or products.
  • Reduce hazards where possible: Obviously you want to have fun on your wedding day, but take precautions if you’re considering something risky, like a bonfire or fireworks display. In such cases it’s best to use professionals, who will likely have their own special insurance.

Plan your dream wedding on Bridebook 

There you have our ultimate guide to wedding insurance. For our guide to wedding finances and budgeting in general, check out our ultimate wedding budget breakdown for more information, and start planning your wedding with Bridebook today!

You Might Also Like…

Happy Planning!

50 Wedding Gift Ideas 2023 for Every Budget

Whether you’re an engaged couple looking for cool ideas for your wedding gift list, or a guest wanting to source an extra special present, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of 50 unique and thoughtful wedding gift ideas that are sure to make any couple smile. From bespoke, personalised presents, to unforgettable gift experiences, there’s something for everyone – homebodies, foodies, art lovers, adrenaline junkies and more! Read on for the full list.

Wedding Gift Experiences

1. Theatre tickets to The Lion King for two – £144, Virgin Experience Days

For a spectacular theatrical experience like no other, look no further than Disney’s multi award-winning musical. It’ll make an ideal post-wedding date night for the couple.

2. A weekend getaway at The Bird (Bath, Hotel) – £290, Virgin Experience Days

Treat the couple to a two-night winter stay with breakfast at The Bird in Bath. The’ll stay in a cosy king room nestled just a short saunter from Bath’s main attractions.

3. A sunrise air balloon ride – £260, Virgin Experience Days

Let the couple take to the skies together from one of over 100 locations across the UK. They’ll see the sunrise from an unforgettable new perspective aboard one of Virgin’s iconic red balloons.

4. A wine tasting minibreak – £142, Virgin Experience Days

A tranquil one-night countryside break with a vineyard tour and wine tasting at Chapel Down Winery, featuring fine wines and picturesque views. Perfect for wine- and nature-loving couples.

5. A spa gift card – £250, Champneys Health Spa

With a gift card from Champneys, the couple can choose their own path to relaxation and rejuvenation. At-home products, tension-relieving treatment, or a complete romantic spa break!

6. A Russian spa experience for two – £150, Banya No.1

Tucked away in Shoreditch, Banya No.1 offers an authentic take on the Russian Spa. This 3-hour couple-friendly session comes complete with a private booth and table at the lounge cafe.

7. A gourmet dinner at a fancy restaurant – £250, Gordon Ramsay Restaurants

For the ultimate foodie wedding gift, give the couple a very special London dining experience. Treat them to an exquisite six-course tasting menu at Gordon Ramsay’s Michelin starred Pétrus.

8. A two-hour cooking class – £128, The Jamie Oliver Cookery School

Led by professional chefs, this hands-on two-hour course at The Jamie Oliver Cookery School is perfect for newlyweds. From Indian feasts to pasta masterclasses, the choice is theirs.

9. A kintsugi pottery class for beginners – £100, Class Bento

Give the couple the Japanese art of kintsugi at this unique London pottery class. They’ll each get to create a beautiful ceramic piece to take home with them and treasure.

10. A how-to-draw art class for beginners – £190, City Academy

A fun yet educational one-day beginners’ art class, perfect for the creatively-minded couples out there. They’ll have fun expressing themselves while developing their drawing technique.

Personalised Wedding Gifts

11. A personalised wedding guestbook – £35, Stori

What better way to commemorate the big day than with Stori’s personalised book-bound guestbook? You can collect everyone’s best wishes for the happy couple to share with them.

12. A bespoke wedding venue line drawing – £42, Letterfest

Letterfest’s wedding venue portrait is personalised with the couple’s names and wedding details in a handwritten font below. It’s a stylish illustration that makes the perfect wedding gift.

13. A personalised cheese board/serving platter – £27, The Rustic Dish

We love this personalised cheese board, which doubles as a serving board. Why not include some of the couple’s favourite cheeses in the mix for an extra special wedding gift?

14. A personalised silver plated photo frame – £20, Engravers Guild

A classic silver plated photo frame will keep the couple’s happy memories safe year after year. You can engrave it with a message of your choice for a very personal wedding gift.

15. Personalised date night cards – £18, Not On The High Street

These British-made personalised date night cards are a cheap but thoughtful wedding gift. With 52 surprise activities, both indoor and outdoor, the couple can spend exciting quality time together.

16. Personalised Mr and Mrs mug set – £25, Not On The High Street

These ceramic Mr and Mrs mugs can be printed with the couple’s surnames and wedding date. They’ll remember their wedding every time they have their morning coffee or afternoon tea!

17. Personalised Mr and Mrs indoor doormat – £22.50, Not On The High Street

This doormat can be personalised with the couple’s married names (Mr & Mrs / Mr & Mr / Mrs & Mrs) and their wedding date . A personal and welcoming introduction to their home!

18. A set of personalised kitchen aprons – £40, Not On The High Street

These high quality aprons are made of pure cotton and can be personalised with any name or message. A unique wedding gift for couples who love to cook or bake.

19. Personalised embroidered heart couples dressing gown – £40, Sparks and Daughters

This beautiful cotton dressing gown set makes a lovely personalised wedding gift (or cotton anniversary present). The couple can wear them after a bath or when relaxing at home together.

20. A hand-poured personalised candle – £20, Kindred Fires

This hand-poured natural soy wax candle, encased in frosted glass, makes a charming keepsake wedding gift. It can be personalised with the couple’s name, wedding date and a happy message.

Wedding Gifts for the Home

21. Matching Manon throw and cushion covers – £170, The White Company

This cosy and tactile lambswool-blend collection comes in a classic basket weave. It’s an all-seasons knit sure to bring comfort and joy to the recently married couple’s new home.

22. A classic cast iron Le Creuset casserole dish – £329, Le Creuset

You can’t go wrong with a classic Le Creuset dish – it’s great for one-pot wonders, and will last the couple a lifetime. We particularly love this limited-edition romantic hearts design.

23. A pink glass desk & table lamp – £198, Oliver Bonas

This handmade curved glass lamp from Oliver Bonas is the perfect way to lighten and brighten a couple’s new home. Its pink marbled design is unique to each piece.

24. A set of pink champagne flutes by Maison Balzac – £65, Liberty

These lovely pink glass champagne flutes are sure to elevate the couple’s dining display. They also offer the perfect excuse for using up any leftover bubbly from a Champagne Tower!

25. Vera Wang for Wedgwood Love Knots tealight holders – John Lewis, £52

These classic tealight holders make a beautiful, timeless wedding gift. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a thoughtful wedding gift that combines functionality with style.

26. Capiz wall flower decoration – £78, Anthropologie

This gleaming wall flower, made from handcrafted capiz shells, is sure to give the newlyweds’ walls a touch of glamourous charm. A special piece to remind them of their special day.

27. A ceramic indoor hanging pot trio – £22.99, Hortology

These adorable baby dotty hanging pots are ideal for those green-thumbed couples who don’t have much outdoor space. They’re perfect for hanging herbs or little succulents in the kitchen.

28. A pack of 7 essentials gallery frame – £50, Dunelm

Let the couple show off their wedding photos with this set of black on-trend photo frames. To make their gift extra special, print seven of their favourite wedding day shots and put them in the frames.

29. The original Scratch Map – £20.95, Luckies of London

For couples who love to travel, the original Scratch Map is the perfect affordable wedding gift. Each country scratched off will symbolise a new adventure together, and look great on their wall too!

30. A leather memory box – £229, Life of Riley

This leather memory box is a nifty way for the newlyweds to their precious memorabilia and letters. Styled like a classic treasure chest, it’s a lovely keepsake wedding gift for the home.

Luxury Wedding Gifts

31. A luxury all-in-one wedding day hamper – £160, Fortnum & Mason

This joy-giving wedding hamper is filled with all sorts of celebration-ready goodies. From bubbles to tea to chocolates, everything was created with happy couples in mind.

32. The Velvetiser (white edition) – £99.95, Hotel Chocolat

This indulgent in-home hot chocolate machine is perfect for newlyweds. Let them enjoy a barista-grade drink as part of their morning ritual, or curl up on the sofa with a velvety cup in the evening.

33. Wedding Bells biscuit tin – £48, Biscuiteers

This Wedding Bells collection features an irresistible assortment of wedding-themed lemon biscuits in a keepsake tin. You can even personalise the heart biscuit with a message for the happy couple.

34. A Panasonic bread maker – £199.99, John Lewis

For couples who love creative yet hassle-free baking, look no further than an automatic bread maker. They can enjoy fresh bread and cakes every day without sacrificing quality time.

35. A year of flowers – £240, Bloom and Wild

Brighten up the couple’s home with a year-long flower subscription. Whether they choose the flowers themselves, or prefer to be sent a surprise, they’ll have a fresh delivery every 28 days.

36. The Adventure Challenge book (couples edition) – £49, The Adventure Challenge

The Adventure Challenge book will keep the couple’s date nights fresh and exciting year after year. Each new adventure is a mystery until it’s scratched off, making for unforgettable experiences!

37. Name twin stars gift – £69, World Star Registry

For a special and unique wedding gift, let the happy couple name their own stars. They’ll get matching certificates showing their stars’ co-ordinates, which they can track each night in real-time!

38. The Luxury Retreat Hamper – £179, The Newt in Somerset

Let the couple relive their honeymoon experience with a touch of at-home hotel luxury. The Luxury Retreat Hamper contains everything newlyweds need for a cosy yet indulgent night in together.

39. A bespoke wine subscription – from £36/month, The Grape Reserve

If you know the couple enjoys a drink or two, consider a monthly wine subscription gift. Each curated monthly selection comes with tasting notes, as well as a complementary recipe.

40. A projector for two – from £399.99

Give the couple a cinema experience on the go, with Anker’s Nebula Capsule portable projector. They can enjoy a romantic night watching movies together under the stars anywhere in the world.

Useful Wedding Gifts

41. The Ultimate Travel List – £19.99, Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet’s bestselling Ultimate Travel List is a must-have coffee table book for couples who love to travel. It ranks the world’s greatest places to visit, featuring 200+ awe-inspiring photos.

42. A large carry-on suitcase – £394, Monos

Monos’ award-winning, honeymoon-friendly suitcases will last the couple a lifetime, and come in 10 gorgeous colours. Their largest check-in case is perfect for a few weeks away in the sun.

43. The Couple’s Cookbook: Recipes for Newlyweds – £20, Cole and Kiera Photography

Written by husband and wife wedding photographer duo, Cole and Kiera Stipovich, The Couple’s Cookbook: Recipes for Newlyweds is a lovely primer for newlyweds starting their first home together. From easy weeknight meals to beautiful weekend brunches to dinner party delights, this is a fun, playful and useful wedding gift that will keep on giving.

44. A high and low parallettes set – £119.95, Mirafit

Help the sporty couples out there build up their own home gym! With a Mirafit high and low parallettes set, the couple can train together from the comfort of their living room.

45. A backpack picnic hamper for two – £49.99, Greenfield Collection

Let the couple enjoy lovely picnics together with this deluxe backpack hamper for two. It’s got all the essential accessories, plus plenty of space to accommodate food, drinks and containers.

46. An artisan KitchenAid mixer – £499, KitchenAid

Even the most kitchen-shy couples will want a KitchenAid mixer on their gift list – from whipped cream to mashed potatoes, it does it all. You can customise it further with an assortment of other useful attachments, like spiralizers or a pasta roller, for an even more personal wedding gift.

47. McGregor 5-piece gardening set – £35, Argos

 

If the couple are moving into a home with outdoor space, this 5-piece gardening set is ideal. Strong, durable, and built to last – these tools will keep their garden looking gorgeous!

48. A Smarter coffee machine – £199, Smarter

No gift list is complete without a coffee machine, but for a more unique wedding present, consider a lightweight Smarter coffee machine. With the Smarter App, the couple can set the strength and choose from two different modes, ‘filter’ and ‘grinder’, to achieve a flawless cup of coffee each time.

49. A scribble writing digital alarm clock – £15, Prezzybox

This scribble writing digital alarm clock doubles as a light-up memo pad – perfect for busy or forgetful couples! And at only £15, it’s a super cheap wedding gift, that’s super fun and useful!

50. An AirTag, £35 Apple

For couples moving into a new home together, a tactile Apple AirTag will provide a private and secure way to easily locate their most precious items…like their new housekeys!

There you have our top 50 wedding gift ideas for every budget. From homebodies and foodies, to nature lovers and adrenaline junkies, there’s something to delight every couple.

The Current COVID Wedding Rules in England

UPDATED: 14th June 2021

N.B. The following applies to weddings in England only. We are expecting official confirmation from the government tomorrow which will be updated here.

Finally, we can give you the news that we’ve all been waiting for – big weddings are back! The government has announced today that while other restrictions will remain in place, weddings with more than 30 guests will be able to go ahead in England from 21st June! Your patience and resilience through all of this have been incredible and we are so excited to watch you celebrate, even if there will still be some more restrictions in place than we had hoped for.

We know it can be tricky to work out exactly what these restrictions are and what is just guidance, but hopefully, we can help. Below are the latest rules, as reported by the Deputy Political Editor at The Telegraph. This should give some additional clarity about what is and isn’t allowed from 21st June.

From June 21st:

Allowed:

  • Unlimited attendees at wedding ceremonies and receptions, so long as they can be accommodated in a COVID-secure way
  • Musical entertainment, with a group of up to six performers allowed inside, and up to 30 performers allowed outdoors
  • The wedding couple’s first dance
  • Speeches, with the Government guidance urging that these take place outdoors or in a well-ventilated area where possible. Public address systems, such as microphones are preferable to raised voices.
  • Cutting of the cake
  • Guestbooks and camera stations are allowed, however, contact should be minimised, with hand sanitisation stations encouraged before and after use

Not Allowed:

  • Indoor dancing
  • Stand up drinks receptions at outdoor or indoor wedding venues

Advised Against:

  • Dancing outdoors
  • Communal singing, which includes hymns
  • Reusable service booklets and devotional materials. Single-use alternatives that can be binned should be used instead
  • Cash donations, with alternative online giving encouraged instead

Obligatory:

  • Facemasks must be worn indoors during wedding ceremonies and receptions, except for when eating and drinking
  • Table service for food and drink, with no more than six guests per table
  • Risk assessments are mandatory for all wedding venues, as well as guests celebrating on private land if more than 30 people are attending

Make sure you download the Bridebook app and update your wedding location and date. This will ensure you get breaking news that is relevant to your wedding, whenever it is announced. To get the latest updates follow #whataboutweddings and The UK Wedding Taskforce on Instagram.

Hot wedding trend 2018 – let the purple reign

We’d like to introduce all UK wedding suppliers to ultra violet purple – your Pantone colour of the year.

 

Last year’s colour theme of the year was Greenery and we definitely saw a surge in brides and grooms opting for green decor and garland style floral installations.

The Pantone colour of the year is always a strong indicator of wedding trends to come so expect to find couples requesting fifty shades of purple this year!

We think it’s the most beautiful colour for weddings – adding a calm sophistication and often regal touch to any tableware, flowers or decor, and there are a lot of ways to incorporate accents of this colour in a wedding theme or to go all out and let the purple reign.

Now is the time to start thinking about designs, decorations and photographs that incorporate ultra violet purple to ensure that you position your wedding business as relevant and on trend in time for peak wedding season.

Here are a few ideas to inspire you to incorporate this 2018 wedding trend in your wedding supplier collection…

 

Purple wedding flowers

Perhaps your clients will want to really embrace the ultra violet vibes…

 

Or perhaps they’d prefer to mix ultra violet with more subtle lavender tones…

 

Will the newly engaged couples you work with opt for strong purples and deep velvet ribbons…

 

Or splash the brightest purples across garlands and amongst greenery for a bold look that builds on last years hot trend…

 

Keep it simple for couples who don’t want to spend a fortune on purple centrepieces…

 

 

And why not recommend that couples use lavender as a cost effective way to add a bohemian edge (and a beautiful scent) to a purple wedding theme. They’ll appreciate your advice and will trust you more for it.

 

 

Purple wedding cake

Design beautiful wedding cakes that combine deep purple with a marbled effect – another hot trend of 2018…

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/AUxEgaLTZSLTYAYkvfRhtHJERqW7apjH1nNE02MLOTS8eqjlVU7-u8k/

 

For more traditional wedding cakes add a textured mauve layer…

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/300052393913944633/

 

Or opt for a naked wedding cake and use purple fruits and flowers to decorate. Simple yet effective…

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/55591376624187653/

 

Swot up on these types of dessert table delights. The “help yourself” dessert table is set to replace traditional wedding breakfast desserts in 2018…

 

Purple wedding decorations

Feature photographs of an elegant, purple themed wedding breakfast table on your wedding website to capture the hearts and minds of trendy 2018 couples…

 

Include purple paper lanterns in your product portfolio for couples wanting accents of colour rather than swathes of it…

 

Or be very clever and show couples how effective purple lighting can look alongside sophisticated whites and crystal table decorations…

 

We just love these lavender mason jars…

 

Purple wedding stationery

Showcase bright and elegant wedding invitations on your website that incorporate purples but remain traditional in style…

 

Show 2018 couples that you also cater to contemporary stationery themes with this bold, dramatic and stylish purple invitation…

 

And add beautiful botanical wedding invitations to your purple collection – always a crowd pleaser…

 

Ultra violet purple and gold – the edit

Purple and gold look so great together. We wouldn’t be surprised if Harry and Meghan opt for a similar dramatic yet expensive-looking theme.

For a truly regal look add elaborate gold metals to your wedding collection…

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/AelJe2icBWc7A8v3Q-XfuKFDyeU6mNu7NUQZT7XcQefI5WnXbWhvOB0/

 

Gold cutlery is hot stuff and we’ve seen a rise in requests for it over the past year or so. With the arrival of purple as a key colour of 2018, expect a surge in requests for gold tableware and purple glassware and chargers – this style of table setting is going to be hot property…

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/318911217354416861/

 

Or prepare for couples to flip the colour scheme around and opt for purple tablecloths and gold chargers. We love this look for a winter wedding whereas the above could work all year round.

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/338121884516529722/

 

This beautiful wedding cake uses just a touch of purple with the subtle focus being the gold leaf detail and drops of liquid gold…

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/522910206719079412/

 

It’s time to stock up on colourful ideas for your wedding business

 

We have it on good authority that ultra violet purple will be making an appearance on engaged couples Pinterest boards any day now – and it should certainly be splashed across yours too if you want to be seen as a hot and relevant wedding supplier this year.

 

We guarantee that your competitors will be considering when to place their first order of purple flowers now, as well as researching where best to source ultra violet purple table decorations like napkins, plates, tablecloths, glassware and chargers. And we’ll soon see the leading stationery companies showcasing purple themed wedding invites.

 

Get ahead of the game and start investing in ultra violet wedding decorations and ideas now to luxe up your portfolio and win the hearts (and bookings) of couples this year.


Looking for more wedding industry trends and couple insights? Head to the Bridebook Business Hub, the home of wedding industry knowledge. 

/article/bridebook-business-article-hub

10 Jaw Dropping Wedding Destinations

Here at Bridebook we were lucky enough to meet with travel experts,  ‘The Luxury Travel Book‘,  who gave us an insight in to their top 10  favourite places in the world to get hitched. 

 

Exclusive Bridebook Offer:  The Luxury Travel Book are offering a special 10% discount for Bridebook users. Mention Bridebook to claim. 

Bridebook.co.uk destination weddings

Santorini

Megalochori Caldera

Hidden away in a stunning scenic position on the Caldera at Megalochori, this wonderful villa combines spectacular views with a very special ambience and high level of service. There is an outdoor dining area with barbecue facilities for sumptuous barbecues, prepared by the estate’s executive chef, making this a perfect venue for a wedding venue.

 

Bridebook.co.uk Santorini

Mykonos

Paradise Beach View

Situated in the south of Mykonos, with sea views stretching to the islands of Paros and Naxos, and between the beaches of Paradise and Paraga, this luxury property to rent comprises two superb attached villas and two swimming pools.  The vast outdoor spaces, and the close proximity of a church, also make this property very suitable for weddings.

Positano, Amalfi Coast

Positano Bay

This stunning luxury villa is a gorgeous historic residence built in 1741, and overlooks the beautiful Positano Bay. Positano, on the Amalfi Coast, is one of Italy’s most romantic destinations. The picturesque town is built vertically on the face of a cliff, making for stunning views of the sea. The town is filled with romantic restaurants offering fantastic seafood and sea views. 

Bridebook.co.uk the luxury travel book

Tuscany

Borgo Bernardini

The impressive Villa Borgo Bernardini, dates back to before the 1700s, and was originally the hunting lodge retreat of Count Cosimo Bernardini of Lucca. It is situated on a family run estate, ten kilometres south of Lucca, with magnificent views over hill terraced olive groves. Within the Italian gardens (2000m2) with gazebo, there is a large salt water swimming pool (16 x 8m) which is floodlit at night. Indoors, there is a Banquet hall, card and billiard room, and wine tasting room with a private selection of Tuscan wines.

 

Bridebook.co.uk tuscany

Lake Como

Villa Tremezzo

This absolutely stunning villa, sits within its own parkland on the western shore of Lake Como in Italy, directly across from the famous town of Bellagio. One of the legendary properties on Lake Como, it offers excellence at all levels. The infinity overflow pool overlooks the lake and there is a spa and a gym in separate buildings. The spectacular lakeside terrace is perfect for parties.

 

Bridebook.co.uk french atlantic coast

French Atlantic Coast

Villa Arcachon

This exceptional beachside villa, is situated on the Bassin d’Arcachon, just 45 minutes from Bordeaux. Its prestigious location, luxurious accommodation and level of service, together with its beautiful surroundings including expansive gardens and a lap pool, make it ideal for a wedding or other special event.

 

Bridebook.co.uk luxury travel book

 

Menorca

San Climent

This new luxury villa, offers not only a stunning location and exceptional accommodation, but also the bespoke services of a 5* hotel! It is situated on a 250-acre estate in the countryside just outside Sant Climent, with breath-taking 180° sea views. Outdoor amenities include a 26-metre outdoor heated pool set in the exquisitely landscaped gardens, as well as a beautiful event space, catering for up to 200 guests.

 

Bridebook.co.uk luxury travel book

Puglia

La Residenza di Masseria Pettolecchia

Puglia is famous for its olive groves, castles and Romanesque cathedrals, Alberobello’s trulli, Lecce’s Baroque churches, Castel del Monte’s eight superb towers and miles of coastline and beaches. In the midst of all this is Masseria Pettolecchia, the jewel of the region’s fortified masserias. With its large outdoor spaces, large pool and high level of service, it is eminently suitable for weddings and other events.

Bridebook.co.uk luxury travel book

Ibiza

Villa Es Cubells

This exceptional villa, over 300 years old, is located in the best area of Ibiza, in the countryside of Cala Jondal. It is just 5 minutes drive from both the famous Blue Marlin Beach and the village of San Josep. Within the beautiful grounds, there is a swimming pool  with large furnished terrace, a tennis court, a well equipped gym, sauna and hydromassage Jacuzzi, a massage and yoga space.

 

Bridebook.co.uk luxury travel book

Marrakech

Villa Ouarzazate

Situated near the three main golf courses in the Marrakech area, and just a few minutes away from the city, this wonderful l villa sits in the middle of a splendid Andalusian garden with heated swimming pool. There are wonderful views to the snow-covered peaks of the Atlas Mountains. The property is also highly recommended for special events for 100 – 200 people in total.

 

Bridebook.co.uk luxury travel book

 

Have you fallen in love with the idea of a destination wedding? We don’t blame you!  Mention ‘Bridebook’ to receive 10% off when booking through The Luxury Travel Book. 

Happy Planning! 

 

8 Things Not To Miss When Planning Your Winter Wedding

Wrap Up!

In the process of dress shopping for your wonderful winter wedding, don’t forget the climate or it might spoil your day. Hunt for a warm fur shrug or a statement bridal cape to compliment your dress and keep you from feeling the cold on your big day. Don’t forget about your bridesmaids too!

 

Festive Food


Your guests will be amazed if you can offer traditional food and drink to add to the festive feel. Include hot chocolate, mulled wine and mince pies to make your loved ones feel warm and content inside.

 

Cosy Decor


Think candles, throws, and scatter cushions if you want to turn your reception into a warm and inviting atmosphere in the height of winter. Your guests will be rushing to take their seat!

 

Get Insured


With the chance of torrential weather on your wedding day, be prepared. Be it rain, hail, snow or ice, having wedding insurance will be a safety net in case anything should happen. It will take the pressure off you and allow you to enjoy the moment.

 

Be Colourful


Just because you’re getting married in winter doesn’t necessarily mean you need to have a white wedding. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bright, bold colours when choosing your theme – stand out and be unique!

Bridebook.co.uk Winter Wedding Deco
Photo by Ten Twenty One

 

Sensible shoes


You may have dreamt about walking down the aisle in glittery 6-inch stilettos, however if you’re potentially contending with snow and ice you may want to reconsider. There’s nothing worse than a bride slipping and sliding her way to the altar, so make sure you’re wearing sensible footwear to walk (you can change back into the stilettos later!)

 

Don’t Overheat


Just because it’s reached sub-zero temperatures outside doesn’t mean it will be the same inside. Once everyone’s on the dancefloor, the sweat will start, so make sure you ask the venue to keep it to a comfortable heat. (Also, sweat patches ruin photos!)

 

Festive Favours


Give something to your guests that will wow them. Whether it’s a holiday-themed personalised gift, or a winter wonderland-inspired keepsake, make sure everyone takes something home that they won’t stop talking about for weeks!

 

Happy Planning! 

Wedding readings for all denominations

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

Winnie-the-Pooh, AA Milne (book)

Wherever I am, there’s always Pooh,

There’s always Pooh and Me.

Whatever I do, he wants to do,

“Where are you going today?” says Pooh:

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

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

“Let’s go together,” says Pooh.

So wherever I am, there’s always Pooh,

There’s always Pooh and Me.

“What would I do?” I said to Pooh,

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

It isn’t much fun for One, but Two,

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

 

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

 

Les Misérables, Victor Hugo (book)

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

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

 

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

 

Jane Eyre, Charlotte Bronte (book)

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

 

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

 

1 Corinthian 13 (Church of England)

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

The Seven Benedictions The Sheva Brachot (Jewish)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

Saptapadi (Hindu)

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

How To: Get Enough Sleep Before Your Wedding

So your wedding is one of the biggest events in your life meaning you’re unlikely to get a ton of sleep on the night before the big day. Bridebook is here to help with our top 5 tips to help get those zzzzzs.

Bridebook.co.uk bride trying to sleep

Avoid the Booze

Although having a glass (or two) of wine before bed sounds like a great idea at the time, it can actually effect your quality of sleep. Opt for mug of de-caffeinated herbal tea instead.

Lace Up Your Trainers

Exercise is the best way to ‘de-stress’ and take your mind off things. Try going for a run or a light stroll an hour or so before bedtime.

No More Phones

Take advantage of your ‘Do Not Disturb’ setting on your phone so you’re not distracted or woken up in the middle of the night.

Hydrate

Drinking plenty of water is really important to aid a good night’s sleep. It also helps keep your skin plump and well hydrated.

Don’t Dwell On It

Accept and embrace the fact you may not get the best night’s sleep before your wedding, but don’t be hard on yourself about it! Try creating a ‘sleep’ playlist on Spotify to help calm all your emotions you may be feeling.

 

Happy Planning!  

Browse other similar articles:

 

Wedding Survival Kit: 28 Items You’ll Need

Whilst we hope and pray that nothing goes wrong on your wedding day, it’s always better to be prepared. Here at Bridebook, we’ve compiled a list of some essential items you’ll need for those ‘just in case moments’. These should be readily available at the ceremony and wedding reception. Maybe put your maid of honour in charge of this one!

Bridebook.co.uk bride's make-up bag

28 Items You’ll Need In Your Wedding Day Survival Kit

  1. Pain killers
  2. Plasters (normal and blister plasters)
  3. Large bottle of water
  4. Tic Tacs or Smints
  5. Money (just in case!)
  6. Chalk (to cover up any  smudges or smears you may get on your wedding dress)
  7. Comb or hair brush
  8. Dental floss 
  9. Eye drops
  10. Emergency extra earring backs
  11. Hairpins or ponytail holder
  12. Hair spray
  13. Makeup (for quick touch-ups)
  14. Matches
  15. Mini portable sewing kit
  16. Mirror
  17. Nail file
  18. Perfume
  19. Deodorant
  20. Safety pins
  21. Cellotape
  22. Small  scissors
  23. Straws (so you can drink without messing up your lipstick)
  24. Tampons
  25. Tissues
  26. Tweezers
  27. Snacks
  28. Wet wipes

Want some more helpful ‘on the day’ tips ? Have a read of our wedding day tick list! 

Your ‘On The Day’ Tick List

Here at Bridebook we believe your wedding day should be the happiest day of your life. For all your lovely brides to be out there we have come up with a ‘On The Day’ tick list. Follow our top 5 steps: 

Bridebook.co.uk tick list bride

 

Fuel Your Day

Start the day off right with a filling and energising breakfast, such as a bowl of porridge or a bagel and Greek yogurt. If the weather is nice, take yourself off for a 15-minute stroll. This will really help calm your nerves and give you a little ‘me time’ before the celebrations commence. Freshen up with a nice cool shower. Gently exfoliate and moisturise your body.

Bridebook.co.uk porridge with nuts and berries

 

Preparation

You may be tempted to start on the champagne early. Only allow yourself one glass. You want your skin to look fresh, not blotchy. Read more about making your skin look flawless in our article written by Bobbi Brown. Lay out your wedding dress and get everything ready including your survival kit so you are prepared for any emergency situations.  You’ll most likely be wearing heels all day so remember to pack a pair of flats, and savour the moments your feet can relax.

Bridebook.co.uk bride drinking champagne with bridesmaids

 

Stay Calm

Take a minute to yourself to breathe and calm down. Do some simple relaxation exercises to help manage wedding day stress. No one should be phoning you on your wedding day, but if it does ring make sure to forward  your calls on to your maid of honour or a bridesmaid. 

Bridebook.co.uk bride relaxing

 

Thank Your Parents

Your parents probably had a lot to do with making this day special; by helping fund your day and all the time and advice they put in to help make your vision happen.

 

 

 Bridebook.co.uk bride with parents

 

Go Get Married!

And breathe! You’ve been dreaming of this day since you were a little girl, so go and enjoy it!

 

How To Keep Calm On Your W-Day

At Bridebook, we get that your W-Day can be a bit full on – with all the excitement, the adrenaline, the nerves and all the people around you. But it’s the biggest party of your life so enjoy it! Things might take longer than you planned, delays might occur but take deep breaths and don’t stress out. Here are our top tips to make sure you don’t lose your cool on your big day:

1) Hire professionals

This is especially true for wedding hair and make-up. You don’t want to do your own make-up with shaking fingers. We suggest you choose a spacious room, with plenty of natural light and not too many people in it, to sit back, relax and feel pampered. Grooms, this means you too! Avoid trying to shave with nervous hands and giving yourself a cut, splurge on a wet shave instead. It shouldn’t just be the girls pampering themselves.

2) Prepare in advance

Pack everything you will need on the morning of your wedding, in advance. Follow our list, that way you are guaranteed not to forget anything. We also suggest you take all the packaging off any recent purchases, because shopping bags can clutter the space and create a sense of chaos, especially as things you need tend to disappear inside them. Get everything ready, make it look pretty and enjoy the calm!

Bridebook.co.uk- bride putting on shoes in bridal suite
By Guy Hearn

3) Don’t forget to eat

Yes, you probably won’t feel hungry, but trust us, eating something is a must. You don’t want to faint down the aisle or be drunk for your reception! Secret tip: we recommend you have some eggs. They won’t make you bloat and you will feel full for hours.

4) Get dressed

Leave time to get into your wedding dress. It will take your mum and bridesmaids longer to lace and button than it took the professional at the final fitting. Aim to get dressed half an hour before you are due to leave. Then you can enjoy spending time with your family and get used to twirling around in the dress.

Bridebook.co.uk- wedding breakfast laid out
By Richard Skins Photography

5) Prepare your wedding car

Just in case the driver doesn’t know where to go, give him the exact wedding location. If you happen to break down – don’t panic – make sure someone with you has a taxi number to hand. Drama diverted!

6) Picture perfect

Make sure you get all the photos you want on your wedding day! Prepare an order sheet of the shots you need and make sure that everyone knows where they are supposed to be for the pictures. Then you can follow your list without having to think about anything and just have fun!

Bridebook.co.uk- mother and bride hugging
By John Lennie

7) Don’t do any last minute DIY

If any has to be done on the day itself, enlist helpers. Your brain will be in party mode!

8) Relax and enjoy!

Try to relax. Everything is sorted and ready to go, so just enjoy it! Everyone is there to help you. You’re going to look amazing and you’re marrying the love of your life – dreamy!

Bridebook.co.uk- bride and groom taking selfie at the back of wedding car
By Lawson Photography

9) Leave your phone

People probably won’t be calling you on your wedding day, but if they do, pass your phone to the MOH or the BM and they can answer any questions.

10) Drinks

If you decide to have a little drink before the ceremony, don’t over-do it. Grooms, try a half-pint, instead of a full one – you don’t want to be saying your vows and secretly dying for the bathroom!

Bridebook.co.uk- bride and groom hugging with the sun shining
By Miki Photography

Happy Planning!

Tips: Bridal SOS Kit

Bridebook.co.uk- bridal purse perfume hair grip and garter laid out
By Ten Twenty One

Your wedding day has arrived! POP open the champagne because today is going to be the best day of your life! To make sure you have everything you need, here are some bits and bobs you might want to whip together – get your Maid of Honour, AKA the superhero, to hang onto them so you don’t have to.

Basic:

  • Band-Aids
  • Cash
  • Comb
  • Clear nail varnish (goodbye laddered tights or buttons that are about to fall off)
  • Extra earring backs
  • Hair Pins (try bringing brown and black, so you can work with a variety of hair colours)
  • Hairspray
  • Makeup – cover up, lipstick and anything else you might want to touch up
  • Lighter (if a hem is showing a bit of loose thread or if any candles need re-lighting)
  • Mints (fresh breath is always a good idea, especially if you had your favourite garlic bread for lunch)
  • Mobile phone
  • Nail file
  • Paracetamol
  • Perfume
  • Q Tips
  • Safety Pins
  • A small sewing kit
  • Small phone charger
  • Stain remover
  • Straws (especially if you are sporting your signature lipstick and don’t want it to smudge!)
  • Tissues, because (happy) tears are likely!
  • Water bottle

 

Bridebook.co.uk- flower crown wedding accessory
By Richard Skins Photography

 

Pack travel-sized versions of everything and it won’t seem like that much. Summer or winter wedding? Here are some more ideas depending on when you choose to celebrate.

Spring/Summer:

  • Baby powder. A bit of baby powder will stop your arms chafing against your dress. You’ll be chafe free when rocking the dance floor later too.

 

  • Important for an outdoor wedding, and an indoor one, if photos are outside – opt for scent-free. Then it’s already packed for the honeymoon.

 

  • Bug spray. Depending on the location – but around dusk, bugs can become incredibly active and protection becomes necessary (again opt for scent-free).

 

Bridebook.co.uk- bridal emergency kit lying on the bed
By Ten Twenty One

Autumn/Winter:

  • Lip Balm is a major necessity, especially in the winter months, when lips start chapping.

 

  • Hand Cream. Cold air dries the skin on your hands. So if you’re not wearing gloves, get those babies moisturised.

 

  • Anti-static spray. If you are changing in and out of warmer clothes, the spray will stop the static.

 

bridebook.co.uk brides and groom showered in confetti
By Raw Silk Photography

 Happy Planning!

7 Tips To Weather-Proof Your Wedding

As your W-Day draws closer and closer, you might start checking the weather forecast. But WHO CARES… your wedding day is the best day of your life whatever the weather. So let’s just make sure you’re excited and prepared for any wind, rain, snow – because all of them can make your wedding  day even better than you could possibly imagine. So enjoy!

Bridebook.co.uk- bride wearing a pair of white weddingtons
By Ross Harvey

1) Consider your venue

The simplest rule is to always make sure you have a marquee or venue big enough to fit everyone inside. So long as guests are warm and dry, they will have an awesome time so simply plan for that. For marquees, make sure it has sides that can be pulled down if it is a little windy, so you can really get that party started.  Sorted!

Bridebook.co.uk- umbrella favours for guests
By Cinzia Bruschini

2) Brollies and Wellies

“Every cloud has a silver lining.” If rain is expected, embrace it! Why not get guests to bring a pair of wellies? Or if you have a little budget to spare, give them multi-coloured wellies as favours (you can find cheap ones online) – you could even ask their shoe size on the invite. Or have your names and the wedding date drawn on brightly coloured brollies for people to take away with them, et voila! Imagine your whole guest list in wellies and brollies – the pictures will look amazing! Oh and ladies, keep yourselves (and your stunning shoes) from sinking into the wet ground with heelstoppers!

 

Bridebook.co.uk- bride and groom kissing under multicoloured umbrella
By Chris Giles Photography

3) Dark skies are superb for photographers

Photographers LOVE a stormy sky. It makes for amazing lighting, so enjoy creative and unique wedding photos! A little wind will make the billowing veil look incredible, snow will make everything much more intimate and cosy, while raindrops look amazing in photos. Go outside, dance around, laugh and stay happy, you’ve just married your best friend!

 

Bridebook.co.uk- bride and groom in outdoor ceremony under umbrellas
By Allister Freeman

4) Cross fingers for snow

If you are lucky enough to have a winter wedding AND it happens to snow then definitely embrace it! Think of all the possibilities: you could wear a stunning fur coat, you can cosy up to your beloved in the middle of a snowy field… And think about the photos; your wedding will look like a fairy tale!

Bridebook.co.uk- bride and groom kissing in front of skiis
By David Pullum Photography

5) Hot or Cold?

Your wedding day is set to be scorcher – picture the sun shining and drinks flowing. Just make sure there’s lots of water kicking about and maybe turn your wedding programme into a fan – just so you’re looking out for those guys in morning suits and elderly relatives. Everyone will be happy so you can get back to your party in the beautiful sunshine.

If the temperature is looking a little cold for your big day, you can easily rent an extra heater even a week to go before the wedding so there’s nothing to worry about. Everyone is going to be so hot from dancing they won’t notice anyway. It just means people will party harder!

 

Bridebook.co.uk- bridesmaids in faux fur covers
By Richard Skins Photography

6) Ask the ushers for help

That’s what they are there for! Get the ushers to shelter you with an umbrella as you go into and leave the ceremony. And if you arrange for them to have towels, they can even give the aisle a quick wipe down ready for your entrance = flawless dress. Bonus.

 

Bridebook.co.uk- groom and ushers standing on a hill against the sky
By Ross Harvey

7) Now go and have fun!

Final tip: don’t worry about the beautiful white dress and the smart suit – they can always be cleaned. This is the biggest party of your life so go and have fun; your guests are definitely going to – rain, snow, wind or shine!

 

Bridebook.co.uk- bride and groom standing under white umbrella
By Anna Clarke Photography

Happy Planning!

Bridebook’s 10 Favourite Wedding Traditions

Bridebook.co.uk- phillipa lepley gown with blue bow sewn in
By Chris Giles Photography

1. Something Old, Something New…

Everyone knows that there are four must-haves for your wedding: something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. Traditionally, these have been carried by the bride (along with a silver sixpence in her shoe!) but we love seeing anybody take up this tradition. The something old represents the past, while the something new symbolises the couple’s bright future together. The something borrowed should be from a happily married friend or relative, in the hope that their good fortune will rub off on this couple! Finally, the something blue is connected to ideas of fidelity and love.

Bridebook.co.uk- something old borrowed new and blue
By Chris Giles Photography

2. The Wedding Veil

This tradition originated in Ancient Rome, where brides used their wedding veil to hide from evil spirits who envied and wanted to steal her newly wedded bliss. Scary stuff! (For help choosing your veil – whether you’re fearful of spirits or not! – check out this article.)

3. A Rainy Wedding

Rain, rain, go away? Not at all! Rain on a wedding day is believed to symbolise fertility. According to Hinduism, it’s also good luck. Plus, it makes for fab photos – so get your wellies on!

4. The Threshold

The tradition of the groom carrying the bride over the threshold originated in Medieval Europe. It was believed that the bride was extra vulnerable to evil spirits through the soles of her feet! Not hard to believe if she’d spent the whole day in heels… Nowadays, we love this super cute tradition for any couple, not just ones made up of a bride and groom.

Bridebook.co.uk- bride tearing up
By Jamie Bott Wedding Photography

5. Tears of Joy

Feeling teary on your wedding day? Don’t worry – it’s a good thing! If a bride cries on her wedding day, it’s believed that she will have used up all her tears for years to come, meaning she’s looking forward to a very happy marriage. We reckon this goes for anyone getting married, not just the brides! So our advice? If you’re wearing mascara, make it waterproof…

6. The Garter Toss

Believe it or not, there’s actually a meaning to the garter toss. In France, it used to be believed that the bride’s dress carried good luck. Unfortunately, this meant everyone wanted a piece of it! To stop the crowd rushing towards the bride to rip off pieces of her dress, some bright spark decided to distract them by throwing a garter. It worked a treat – and it’s stuck around since!

Bridebook.co.uk- groom lifting bride as guests applaud
By Allister Freeman

7. The Honeymoon 

Did you know the honeymoon wasn’t always a fancy holiday? The idea of the honeymoon actually originated from the (thankfully!) long-abandoned practice of grooms abducting their brides. Over the decades, this turned into a tradition where the newlyweds would hide away for thirty (yes, thirty!) days. That’s one month or the length of the lunar cycle – so that’s where we get the “moon”! On each day, a close relation would bring them honeyed wine – and that’s where “honey” comes from. Anyone still up for a honeymoon like that?!

8. Decorating the Wedding Car

Does tying cans to your wedding car seem like a silly idea to you? Well, it didn’t to French gentlemen a few centuries ago! They punished the groom for taking a single girl “off the market” by waking him up in the middle of the night and demanding he repay them with a feast.

Bridebook.co.uk- wedding rings and engagement ring on top of pink flowers
By Chris Giles Photography

9. Wedding Rings

Ever wondered why we wear wedding rings? And why do we wear them on the fourth finger of our left hands in the UK? Well, this tradition comes from the romantic Romans. They believed that a vein ran directly from this finger to the heart – and the ring’s circle symbolises eternal love!

10. The Best Man

Bridebook.co.uk- groom and best man hug before the ceremony
By Allister Freeman

Believe it or not, the best man has been around for a while – even if they weren’t quite the speech giver they are today! This tradition originated in Anglo-Saxon times. Back then, the groom abducted his bride – so to defend himself from the bride’s family, he took his closest (and strongest) friend as a partner in crime!

You might also like…