Tabla de contenidos para July - August 2017 en You and Your Wedding

This issue is all about romance (which is very easy to forget about when spreadsheets and late RSVPs are taking up most of your time). To give you inspiration, we’ve shot the most beautiful, romantic dresses (with lots of stunning veils to add to the look), shown you incredible reception styling ideas (blush and gold is always a good idea), and shared some of the prettiest real weddings we’ve ever seen (celebrations on a boat for two in Dubai, anyone?). Plus, we have DOO yRX QHHG WR NQRZ DERXW yRXU fiUVW QLJKW DV D PDUULHG FRXSOH› $KKK› WKH fiUVW QLJKWµ› 7KLV KDV FKDQJHG D ORW RYHU WKH yHDUV› Whereas previously, couples may have come straight to marriage from living at home, now many will have lived together, may have children,…

Spruce up table settings the savvy way with napkins that double up as menus. These luxury hand-printed linen napkins are a collaboration between embroidery studio Extra Special Touch and wedding stationer Swoon at the Moon. Choose from the collection of beautiful designs, or go the bespoke route. Matching invitation suites and on-the-day paper goods are available as well as linen place mats and cotton bags.…

“Blush pink and rose gold look perfect with leafy plants, creating an air of vintage elegance” “A mixture of pastel tones and metallics provided the ideal finishing touch” THE BRIEF Mood A dizzyingly romantic affair in a rustic outdoor setting. Palette The softest shades of rose gold and blush pink with dashes of green. Venue The magnificent gardens of the foodie favourite, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire. Rose gold is having a real moment; from stunning jewellery to decadent interiors, the elegant shade is everywhere. With its subtle glamour and fairy-tale charm, it’s the ideal hue to use for a day that’s all about love. The stylist behind this dreamy ELJ-GDy ORRN› (PPD 5LGGHOO› LV GHfiQLWHOy RQ ERDUG ZLWK the trend: “I adore all things romantic,…

“WE HAD THREE BLUE WEDDING CARS BECAUSE JAMES IS A CHELSEA FAN AND MY FATHER AN AVID EVERTONIAN!” “MUSIC WAS VERY IMPORTANT AND OUR GUESTS ALL COMMENTED ON HOW MUCH IT REFLECTED US” THE COUPLE Hannah & James Hannah Connell, 33, and James Atkins, 34, held their ceremony at Sacred Heart Church, Petworth and reception at The Barn at Roundhurst “We wanted our wedding to be impressive, but not too formal and for our guests to feel that they had been invited into a home,” says Hannah of her and James’ summer celebration. The couple instantly achieved this vibe by choosing Hannah’s parents’ farm as the venue and by enlisting the help of wedding planner Kim Balasubramaniam to transform a blank-canvas marquee into an impressive botanical wonderland. “Kim…

8–9°C The ideal temperature for serving champagne. Store at a cool and constant temperature of about 10°C. 6 The number of glasses in a standard 75cl bottle. The preferred serve for all occasions is having glasses two– thirds full enough to enjoy, with limited chance of spillage! SIZE MATTERS A magnum of champagne holds 150cl; a jeroboam holds 300cl. HIGHER LOVE The key to a champagne tower is a solid base; it must then continue to decrease by one to build it up – for example, 10 by 10 glasses on the bottom, nine by nine glasses on the next level, eight by eight, and so on. Coupe vs flute The coupe may look glamorous, but actually the larger surface area causes the liquid to lose its bubbles…

Family affair We’re wondering what song to have as our first dance. We’re thinking Hey Jude because our two-year-old son is called Jude and it will help us to integrate him into the wedding more. (Our second child – a daughter – is just 11 months old and is too young to notice if she’s not involved.) Do you think this is a good idea? Our cake topper is a replica of the four of us, but how else can we involve our children in the day? Matilda Y&YW says: Your first-dance song idea is so cute! You could always dance with your children as well to have them even more involved, but if you’d like the first dance to be just the two of you, there are lots of…

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1 Set your parameters. Work out how much you can spend, how much holiday you can take and how far you’re prepared to travel, to help narrow the selection to one or two countries. 2 Think about past holidays you’ve loved. Don’t choose a style of holiday you’ve never been on before; if you love relaxing on the beach, now is not the time to book a hike through Bhutan! 3 Consider the weather. If it’s rainy season in your dream destination straight after your wedding, consider a romantic minimoon first with the longer haul option later in the year.…

When it comes to hen SDUWLHV› ZH UHFNRQ ZH·YH done it all. Week-long epic SDUWy DEURDG" 5RFNHG LW› Murder mystery dinner? Solved it. Low-key afternoon tea at the maid of honour’s KRXVH" /RYHG LW› 7KH FHOHEUDWLRQV WKDW really stand out are those where every guest is made to feel special and involved. ,W·V QRW DERXW KRZ PXFK yRX VSHQG› ZH·UH talking thoughtful touches that show you appreciate their presence. Here’s how to PDNH LW PHPRUDEOH ² JLYH WKLV WR yRXU 0R+ LI VKH·V LQ FKDUJH› SO INVITING Sending proper invites will make it feel like an event to anticipate. SURVIVAL KIT AKA a hangover kit if you’re overnighting ² fiOO OLWWOH EDJV ZLWK LQH[SHQVLYH HVVHQWLDOV› VXFK DV KDLU WLHV› SODVWHUV ›IRU GDQFLQJ IHHW›› EUHDWK PLQWV››› DQG› SHUKDSV› VRPH SDLQNLOHUV› SAY…

“When your venue makes a statement, you have to go big!” Peta Hunt, editor-at-large THE THEME High glamour with a cool edge at a chic London venue THE DRESSES Bigger is better was our motto for this shoot, with strapless ballgowns and flowing skirts THE ACCESSORIES We picked some serious sparkle to complement the gorgeous gowns SPECIAL THANKS The fashion team shot on location at Haymarket Hotel. Situated in the heart of the London theatre district, the venue is an ideal destination for a trendy wedding in the capital. Featuring fabulous furniture, eccentric guest rooms and light and bright spaces that are perfect for a beautiful reception, the hotel ticks every box for a cosmopolitan couple who want to celebrate their special day in style. firmdalehotels.com/hotels/london/haymarket-hotel…

STYLING TIP Rosy cheeks and glossy lips complement this elegant style beautifully For a touch of regal charm, add a vintage-style hat or headpiece…

Add a little sunshine to your big day and style your girls in vibrant, rainbow-coloured gowns. They’re perfect for an outdoor affair, look amazing with a summer glow and will complement your own dress beautifully. It can be difficult to find a colour that suits all of your maids – try mixing and matching two or three shades for a bold and beautiful look. WEAR WITH… TOP TIP Team a statement dress with one key accessory for a fabulous but fuss-free finishing touch LITTLE MAIDS TOP TIP Choose full skirts and fun accessories for a super-cute flower-girl style CATWALK INSPIRATION…

OLD-SCHOOL GLAMOUR One for lovers of the vintage look. Monsoon has collaborated with Ghost London to create a beautiful collection of dresses – perfect for your maids. It contains three bias-cut maxi dresses, available in navy, silver and blush pink. They’re available online and in selected stores, priced at £149 each. BEST FOOT FORWARD Customising is big news in bridal fashion, so take a trip to your nearest Rainbow Club stockist to pick up a pair of its stylish shoe clips (priced from £40). Use them post wedding to spice up a dull pair of ballet pumps. If you’re looking for a bit of sparkle on your tootsies, Rainbow Club has introduced three new styles in its Luxury Collection this season (priced from £125), with a new fabric, Italian Champagne…

SHINE BRIGHT Clinique’s iconic Chubby Stick will always have a place in our make-up bags, but we all want a bit of extra oomph for w-day. Clinique Chubby Plump & Shine Liquid Lip Plumping Gloss (£18) makes lips appear more plumped, and it’s super easy to use – just twist up the base and apply, no mirror needed! DIY ’do If your hen do is an all-day affair, chances are you won’t have time to hit up the hairdresser’s. No fear, GHD’s UK brand ambassador Zoe Irwin shows you how to style from home... Generously spritz GHD Root Lift Spray (£12.95) close to the roots of the hair and follow with a lighter mist through the mid lengths and ends. Next, take sections of hair and wrap them around the…

From the moment you got engaged, you’ve been looking after your skin: upgrading your everyday regime and indulging in facials. So why, with just weeks until your wedding, is it still misbehaving? This could be down to misplaced belief in skincare myths. We mean those long-held assumptions about the dos and don’ts for your skin type, which could in fact be doing more damage than good. Not to worry, though! We caught up with the crème de la crème of the skincare world to blow the myths out of the water and ensure you’ll QHYHU IHHO EDIflHG LQ WKH beauty aisle again. The skin type: OILY The myth: “Moisturiser is my enemy.” The truth: People with oily skin sometimes shy away from moisturising for fear it will encourage oil, but…

GET A ROOM Ask for the gift of travel if you’ve got everything else you need. Mr & Mrs Smith has just launched these chic bridal gift cards – just remember to send a thank-you postcard from your final destination. Honeymoon already sorted? Use the vouchers as presents for your bridesmaids and cement your place as the best bride ever. 3 of the best BOOKS ABOUT HONEYMOONS SWIPE FOR PARADISE If you found The One online, you’ll love Thomson Holidays’ new dream destination finder where you swipe left or right to discover your top overseas location for tying the knot. Once you’ve swiped right, the best hotels for that destination are revealed. All you have to do is book. Who said planning a wedding abroad was hard work? Get swiping…

THE GEORGE IN RYE, East Sussex WHERE This Grade II-listed hotel is located in the heart of the medieval town of Rye, just over an hour from London. Lovers of vintage can unearth a gem or two in the many antique shops lining the cobbled streets – but if history is more you, a hike up the Parish Church of St Mary’s bell tower is well worth it for the fantastic views. WHY The George in Rye is quirky luxury at its best. Each of the 34 bedrooms is designed to combine contemporary and traditional elements, such as eclectic fabrics and vintage furniture. After hitting the cobbles, relax in one of the freestanding baths before tucking into locally sourced seafood at the George Grill. We loved the fiVK DQG VKHOOfiVK…

“While this celebration is about the two of you, consider your guests’ age range and interests to ensure they have a good time” You’re about to dive into the dazzling world of w-day entertainment. This is a world of mind-bending magicians and mood-setting music; fiUH GDQFHUV DQG IDLUJURXQG ULGHV› ODZQ games and light shows. There are so many opportunities to enchant your guests that it may seem near impossible to narrow them down. However, if you keep in mind VRPH NHy SUDFWLFDO IDFWRUV› yRX·OO fiQG LW easier to make your selection. First – of course – there’s the question of budget. “Narrow down what’s really important to you before you approach anyone,” says planner Holly Poulter, creative director of Revelry Events. “Is the priority lots of variety, and different acts…

MINI MOËT Nothing says celebration quite like champagne. If you fancy a more glamorous backdrop for your pictures, check out this elegant booth from Moët & Chandon. Currently available at Mar Hall, Foxhills, The Grand At Trafalgar Square and The Ritz. Coming soon to moet.com. THE CAMPER VAN Embrace the summer of love with a Volkswagen camper van. Available in a range of pastel colours, the Buttercup Bus is the perfect addition to an outdoor do, buttercupbus.com. AIRSTREAM CARAVAN Transport yourself back to the ’40s with this authentic Airstream caravan. Featuring retro interiors, period props and a fully lit set, this quirky photography studio is a no-brainer for couples who want to bring some old-school loving to their big day, airstreamstudio.co.uk. GIF BOOTH One for Instagram lovers. Supercharge your booth…

Budget-friendly Guestbook alternatives 5DWKHU WKDQ ULVNLQJ SHRSOH PLVVLQJ yRXU JXHVWERRN WDEOH› DVN WKHP WR ZULWH WKHLU PHVVDJHV ZKLOH WKHy·UH VHWWOHG DW WKHLU WDEOHV› 6HW RXW D VXJJHVWLRQ MDU RQ HDFK RQH DQG DVN IRU WKHLU WLSV IRU D KDSSy PDUULDJH RU WKHLU IDYRXULWH GDWH QLJKW LGHDV› Printed table games :HG-WKHPHG JDPHV VHW RXW RQ WKH WDEOHV DUH DQ HDVy ZDy WR PDNH JXHVWV IHHO H[WUD-LQYROYHG› 7KHVH DUH VLPSOH WR FUHDWH yRXUVHOI› RU yRX FDQ fiQG WHPSODWHV RQOLQH› 2Q SDJH ››› yRX·OO fiQG VRPH FODVVLF H[DPSOHV RI WKHVH› ZKLFK yRX FDQ GRZQORDG DW KLWFKHG›FR›XN› 2WKHU IDYRXULWHV LQFOXGH 0U › 0UV TXL]]HV DQG WULYLD FDUGV› Conversation starters 6LPLODU WR WDEOH JDPHV› WKHVH DUH VSHFLfiFDOOy GHVLJQHG WR JHW JXHVWV WDONLQJ ² SHUIHFW LI yRX·YH GHFLGHG WR PL[ XS IULHQGVKLS DQG IDPLOy JURXSV RQ…

Purse-friendly Pick ’n’ mix ferris wheel $ IHUULV ZKHHO fiOOHG ZLWK VZHHWV LVQ·W MXVW D WDVWy WUHDW IRU JXHVWV› EXW LW ORRNV YLVXDOOy VWXQQLQJ› WRR› DQG JHWV people of all ages mingling over a shared love of all things VXJDUy› <RX FDQ KLUH D IHUULV ZKHHO MXVW IRU WKH GDy DW D YHUy reasonable price, then all you need to do is provide pretty paper bags and a scoop in your colour scheme, and watch WKH TXHXH VWDUW WR IRUP › Chocolate fountain Another sweet way to entertain your evening guests is with a VKRZVWRSSLQJ FKRFRODWH IRXQWDLQ› Create a moreish dipping display of everything from strawberries and marshmallows to mini GRXJKQXWV DQG SURfiWHUROHV› Dance off /HW yRXU JXHVWV SURYLGH WKH HQWHUWDLQPHQW IRU IUHH Ey DVNLQJ the DJ to initiate a…

• Ballroom Courses by Michael Litke Private wedding dance lessons in Central London, ballroomcourses.co.uk. • Wedding Day Dance UK Private dance lessons and professional choreography in the comfort of your own home or location of choice, weddingdaydanceuk.co.uk. • First Dance UK A network of teachers who can teach you at home, firstdanceuk.co.uk. • Karen Hardy Dance Studios Bronze, Silver or Gold wedding packages at the former Strictly dancer’s London studio, karenhardystudios.com. • Bounce Studios Choreograph a flash mob at home – make sure you have the space! bouncestudios.co.uk.…

BELT IT OUT If you’re the type of couple that loves a singalong, then surprising your guests at the end of the night with a crowd pleaser from your youth can be a winning way to leave your ceremony. We recommend getting your band or DJ to perform a hit that will get your guests on their feet dancing and clapping as you say your goodbyes. WARDROBE REMIX Sometimes, simple is best, and nothing quite says, “We’re off!” like the replacement of your dress and suit with more casual attire. If you won’t see your guests until after yRXU KRQHyPRRQ› ZKy QRW WKHPH yRXU OHDYLQJ RXWfiW WR suit your destination – think a lei if you’re heading to sunny Hawaii or stripes and a beret for a Parisian escape. FLY…

JO MALONE MBE Jo is responsible for launching some of the world’s most loved fragrances. She launched Jo Loves in 2011, led by the memories and experiences in life. Her picks for our gift list aim to provide couples with a beautiful moment in time (p136) . REBECCA DAKIN Rebecca Dakin, aka The Great British Sexpert is an author, therapist and TV expert. She has fiOPHG WKUHH VHULHV RI VH[ education show Sex Pod and written a book called 101 Sex Tips. Rebecca shares her expertise in our Do Not Disturb feature (p120) . MATT PARRY Wedding photographer Matt is a self-confessed hopeless romantic. “I love how shooting weddings allows me to capture and celebrate the ordinary directly alongside the extraordinary.” Matt shot the stylish real wedding of Lucinda and…

MACARON TOWER “A mixture of pastel tones and metallics provided the ideal fiQLVKLQJ WRXFK›µ VDyV (PPD› 7KH DGGLWLRQ RI GHOLFDWH JUHHQHUy HIIRUWOHVVOy OLQNHG WKH PDFDURQ WRZHU WR WKH WKHPH › THE CENTREPIECE )DLUy-WDOH IDQWDVLHV DUH WKH XOWLPDWH LQ URPDQWLF ZHGGLQJ LQVSLUDWLRQ› DQG WKH HOHJDQW JODVV FORFKHV FKDQQHOOHG RXU favourite enchanted tales such as Beauty and the Beast SHUIHFWOy› ZKHWKHU yRX·UH FHOHEUDWLQJ LQ D PDUTXHH RU D FDVWOH› WKHy DGG D JORULRXVOy UHJDO DLU› THE TABLEWARE “Lace patterned plates paired ZLWK JROG FXWOHUy DQG FUyVWDO JODVVZDUH EURXJKW DOO WKH GHWDLOV WRJHWKHU IURP WKH GUHVV WR WKH › URVH WRQHV DQG PHWDOOLF GHWDLOV›µ VDyV (PPD› 7KH JRUJHRXV flRZHU-DGRUQHG PHQXV ORRNHG DOPRVW WRR SUHWWy WR XQWLH›…

PHOTOGRAPHY: Dominique Bader, photographer 7KH PRVW EHDXWLIXO WLPH RI GDy IRU yRXU portraits is golden hour. This falls around DQ KRXU EHIRUH VXQVHW› 2I FRXUVH› LW·V ZHDWKHU GHSHQGHQW› EXW LI yRX DUH IRUWXQDWH HQRXJK WR EH PDUULHG RQ D VXQQy GDy› WKH ODWHU yRX VFKHGXOH yRXU SRUWUDLWV WKH EHWWHU› Regardless of the weather, I often split my portrait sessions on the wedding day into WZR ›SUHIHUDEOy WZR ››-PLQXWH VORWV›› RQH GXULQJ WKH GULQNV UHFHSWLRQ ›DW WKH HQG› EHIRUH yRX HQWHU IRU yRXU GLQQHU› DQG WKH VHFRQG DIWHU yRX·YH KDG yRXU PHDO DQG plenty of time with your guests. This way, yRX·UH QHYHU JRQH IURP WKH FHOHEUDWLRQV for too long, and it allows the photographer WR WDNH DGYDQWDJH RI WKDW EHDXWLIXO JROGHQ light much later on in the day. “If your…

Everyone thinks your wedding ends when the guests start leaving. But actually, maybe that’s when the fun’s just getting started! We’ve got everything you need for an incredible first night as newlyweds, from the most romantic bridal suites to some seriously alluring lingerie and PJs. We asked Britain’s leading “sexpert” for some sizzling tips. And we’ve covered (or rather uncovered!) married couples’ stories of what really went on after that last dance.…

STYLING TIP Team statement earrings with a simple bun to keep you looking cool when the climate’s hot Sunglasses are a must-have for a destination wedding. Invest in a pair you love and wear them on the honeymoon, too…

“Lace is the most traditional fabric for weddings, but the designers we used know how to make sure the look is up-to-date” Peta Hunt, editor-at-large THE DRESSES Floor length gowns with lots of lace detailing for a beautiful vintage style THE THEME Modern English quirkiness fused with traditional lace THE ACCESSORIES We teamed dainty pearls with regal headpieces to add opulence SPECIAL THANKS The fashion team shot on location at One Marylebone. Built in 1826 on its own “island” in the heart of the capital, the historic building opened its doors as an events space in 2008. Step behind the grand entrance to find the Soane Hall; a prestigious space featuring elegant mosaics and stained glass windows that would provide an opulent backdrop to your big day. The biggest news…

For an elegant style that suits all types of ceremonies, a pale gown is the perfect pick. Opt for a simple dress with lace details or pretty prints for a timeless look that’s anything but boring. Muted FRORXUV DUH flDWWHULQJ DQG super chic – team with a fascinator or statement sunnies for added glamour. CATWALK INSPIRATION WEAR WITH……

When it comes to fabric, the key trends we spotted were the company’s signature lace, silk mikado, soft tulle and silk gauze, plus a wonderful crepe, which gives a crisp and modern red-carpet feel. Plus, there’s some great news for dancing queens – a fishtail dress made of stretch brocade is now cut higher at the back for ease of movement. The star of the show has to be the stunning embroidery, made in Pronovias’ workshops in Barcelona (the company has embroiderers that take over 300 hours to produce one statement dress), plus the detailing on the tulle illusion necklines and sleeves is amazing – some are embroidered and others have gemstones that appear to float delicately over the skin. Interior corsets are also a feature of the collection, and…

“CHOOSE A DAY WHEN YOU HAVE AN EVENT IN THE EVENING TO SEE IF YOUR ’DO CAN STAND UP TO PARTYING” “DISCUSSING WHAT YOU LIKE AND DON’T LIKE BUILDS TRUST WITH YOUR STYLIST, WHICH WILL RESULT IN THE BEST HAIR FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY” We don’t mean to be overdramatic, but your w-day hairstyle is probably the most photographed ’do you’ll ever have. That makes your hair trial a key date to note down in your wedding-planning diary. To help you get the most out of your time with your hairdresser, we asked leading industry stylists for their advice on how to make sure you end up with a look you love. Is a trial essential? In a word, yes. The only exception is if you’re going for a simple…

ESPA PERSONALISED FACIAL One of the most effective personalised facials features editor Hannah has ever tried. After a thorough consultation, expert therapist Angel treated Hannah’s combination skin to buffing and massage, using heavenly Espa products. The result? Oily bits under control and dry patches banished. A real miracle worker! From £125 for 60 mins at Corinthia London, available at salons nationwide ELEMIS BIOTEC FACIALS This treatment begins with a SkinLab consultation: a face photo is taken to reveal sun damage, blocked pores and colour variation, and helps determine the best facial for you. For content writer Zoë, the main issue was dehydration, so she was treated to a Biotec Radiance Renew facial, which targets dull, dry skin with an ultrasonic peel. Zoë left with a new understanding of her skin…

DAYS 1–3 We arrived in bustling Bangkok on the evening of 1 January, but the New Year celebrations were far from over. After checking out our luxurious room at the Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok, we headed out into the 33ºC heat and watched the many brightly lit party boats sailing past as we sipped local beer by the river. Our hotel for the next two nights had a whole host of restaurants with different cuisines and held a prime spot on the river-taxi route. The location really came in handy the following day, after we had covered what felt like hundreds of miles on foot and needed a cooling lift back. Although the heat had us dreaming of a day spent doing nothing by the pool, we decided to make the…

1 Don’t overlook close-to-home options. You could save hundreds by choosing short-haul flights over long-haul. 2 Look at all-inclusive hotels. There are lots of gorgeous luxury options, such as Sandals and Constance Hotels and Resorts. 3 Think about going for fewer nights at an upmarket property rather than a longer ’moon at a cheaper option. 4 Let your hotel, tour operator or travel agent know that you’re honeymooners so you can benefit from any free upgrades, honeymoon packages and the odd bottle of free bubbly. 5 If you’re brave and aren’t wed to the idea of a particular destination, hold out for last-minute deals. Companies such as Turquoise Holidays and Virgin Holidays have great discounts most months on late bookings. Or sign up for newsletters from your favourite hotels, which…

“I regretted every single one of the shots I did with my bridesmaids the night before. On the plus side, I was too hungover to be nervous.” Georgie My photographer told me she wouldn’t work from a photo list, but looking back, I wish I’d insisted. There are none of me with all my family together, just pictures of me with individual relatives. Sasha “I would have worn a dress I could dance in or had a second party dress to change into. I can’t believe this didn’t occur to me during the whole 18 months of planning.” Natalie I wish I’d asked someone to be in charge of telling eveyone about our thumbprint guestbook. It was set up in a corner of the room and hardly anyone noticed it,…

Purse-friendly Travel extras If you’re laying on transport to take your guests from ceremony to reception, add some fun touches to make the journey extra special. We’re thinking snack packs and self-printed programmes – these could include the day’s running order and a who’s who of the wedding party. Temporary tattoo station The kit from Doris Loves (£55) contains everything you need to set up your own fun decorate-yourself stand, including 100 temporary tattoo designs and a display tray. Personal gallery Put together a themed photo installation, along with printed captions explaining the story. These could be pictures from your hen and stag parties, family snaps from both sides, or shots taken at different stages of your relationship. Want to make guests feel extra-involved? Display a shot of each person…

DISCO COCKTAILS For the festival-loving couple, this customised Volkswagen camper van is a perfect addition to the big day. Providing a wide range of cocktails and ales, the van also doubles as a DJ booth with a state-of-the art sound system and mirrored disco balls to really get the party started, thebugbar.co.uk. DOUGHNUT DELICACY Help yourself to doughnuts as you dance the night away – they make a great decoration for your reception and are seriously tasty, too, thegeorgeinrye.com. UNDER THE SEA Fancy something a little different to the average canapé reception? Step forward The Mother Shuckers. Providing a selection of premium oysters sourced from UK oceans, your guests can pick from a range of dressings for a pre-dinner snack they’ll love, mothershuckers.co.uk. CHEERS! What better way to raise a…

Mad Libs Let your loved ones’ imaginations run wild as they reveal their top marriage tips. Expect some cheeky responses as well as genuine advice! Get a member of the wedding party to collect the completed forms before the tables are cleared, so you don’t miss out on the collective wisdom/mockery. Speech sweepstake Ask each table to set up a sweepstake on how long the speeches will last. They don’t have to bet for money; treats from the sweet buffet would do just as well. Remember, strictly no cheating – the speech-givers mustn’t reveal the length in advance. Bingo Guests have to cross off these familiar phrases when they hear them at any point during the speeches – you’ll GHfiQLWHOy NQRZ WKHy·UH listening carefully! If you’re keen to get people…

The speeches are over and the cake’s been cut; now it’s time to party. Unless you’re planning a quiet night of cocktails and chat (and there’s nothing wrong ZLWK WKDW›› SULRULWy RQH LV WR fiOO WKDW GDQFH flRRU› <RXU PXVLFDO FKRLFHV DUH NHy here. Of course, you could leave it entirely up to your DJ or band, but we recommend making at least a few requests in advance to personalise your party. ,I yRX·UH JRLQJ ',< ZLWK yRXU UHFHSWLRQ PXVLF› DOORFDWH HQRXJK WLPH WR EXLOG your playlist. Whatever your preferred genre, it’s worth having a few guaranteed FURZG SOHDVHUV XS yRXU VOHHYH› UHDGy WR SODy LI WKH flRRU·V ORRNLQJ D OLWWOH TXLHW› We’ve asked the experts for their top tracks across a range of styles – and we UHYHDO ZKDW…

• THINK FOOTWEAR Baskets of flip-flops or slippers, for high-heel-weary feet, always go down a treat. • ADD A LIVE MUSICIAN A sax player or percussionist alongside the DJ can give the set serious Ibiza vibes. • EMBRACE PROPS Have even more fun with giant inflatables (guitars and microphones tend to prove popular), oversized accessories and glowsticks – set up a table by the dance floor so guests can help themselves. • INJECT HUMOUR Put out a chalkboard sign of “dance floor rules”, such as “the dance floor must be full at all times” and “no knee slides”. • KEEP IT GOING Try to ensure the distance between the bar and the dance floor isn’t too great – if getting a drink turns into a mission every time, your loved…

“This gorgeous dress is light, airy and pretty – perfect for the low-key bride!” PETA HUNT, EDITOR-AT-LARGE ON THE COVER PINK SLIP WITH LACE OVERDRESS, £2132, SARAH JANKS. HEADBAND, £30, GLITZY SECRETS. DROP EARRINGS, FROM A SELECTION, JON RICHARD. STYLING BY PETA HUNT, ASSISTED BY ALISON YAU. PHOTOGRAPHS BY JASON MOORE. HAIR AND MAKE-UP BY SALLY KVALHEIM. THE TEAM STAYED AND SHOT ON LOCATION AT VELASSARU MALDIVES (VELASSARU.COM)…

21 visually superb drip cakes Gorgeous designs you’ll love, from the prettiest florals to clean and contemporary styles. Get on board with one of the year’s hottest cake trends and find inspiration in this gallery of delights. We challenge you to make it to the end without getting a cake craving… youandyourwedding. co.uk/planning/cakes Nine things to know before dress shopping Looking for The One? We spoke to top British bridal designer Phillipa Lepley on what to expect from your trying-on sessions, as well as brides-to-be and industry experts for their advice on making the most out of your shopping trip. youandyourwedding. co.uk/dresses-and-style Beat that bridal anxiety Even the coolest of cucumbers can get a teensy bit stressed out in the run-up to w-day. Whether you’re an…

Tunnels Beaches, Devon One of our favourite coastal venues has had a stunning makeover. Cleverly cantilevered outwards on all floors to bring the building closer to the water, there’s now more space, meaning bigger guest lists, and an enhanced roof terrace. The Tamburlaine, Cambridgeshire This beautifully designed new hotel has a variety of event spaces for an elegant reception. Add an excellent city location (one-minute’s walk from the train station) and luxe accommodation, and we’re sold. Askham Hall, Cumbria Couples with a taste for the historic (with contemporary comforts) can now celebrate in grand style in the newly refurbished 16th-century Medieval Hall at this Lake District gem. For something more intimate, they’ve renovated the 14th-century Old Chapel, too. For more venue inspiration, see youandyourwedding.co.uk/venues…

SCHEDULE ONE The couple decides to go for a traditional church ceremony, followed by a reception in a country house roughly 30 minutes away 7am Wake up and shower 7.30am Breakfast and buck’s fizz with bridesmaids 8am Hair and make-up artist arrives for bride and two bridesmaids. Detailed schedule depending on who’s having hair and make-up 10.30am Bridal party leaves hotel for church 10.30am Guests arrive at church 10.50am Bride arrives 11am Ceremony starts 11.40am Couple and witnesses sign the register 11.50am Group photos outside the church; champagne served to guests 12.30pm Guests leave for the reception venue while couple continue with photo shoot 1pm Guests arrive at reception for Pimm’s and canapés 1.30pm Couple join guests at reception 2.30pm Guests make their way into the dining area for a…

“AN INVITATION SHOULD BE A TREAT, NOT A TRANSACTION. AND DON’T GET ME STARTED ON WISHING WELLS” NO! HOLLIE BOND IS Y&YW’S LIFESTYLE EDITOR. SHE SAYS: “Like lukewarm tea and people who don’t know how to queue, there are few things that offend my British strait-lacedness as much as opening a wedding invitation only for a little ELW RI SDSHU WR flXWWHU RXW› IHDWXULQJ RQH RI WKRVH QDXVHDWLQJ money poems. You know the sort: ‘If you were thinking of giving a gift to help us on our way, a gift of money in a card would really make our day!’ It’s not just the twee poem that offends me, it’s any form of being asked for cash in return for being invited to a wedding. An invitation should be a…

STYLING TIP Keep hair and make-up classic to ensure all eyes are on the dress With a big dress, we love statement hair combs and earrings…

STYLING TIP ADD A FLOWING VEIL FOR A TRADITIONAL TOUCH BRING A POP OF COLOUR TO YOUR LOOK WITH A STATEMENT HAND RING…

PUTTING ON THE TOP HAT You don’t have to be walking down a cathedral aisle to wear this; just remember, a top hat should be only worn outside, carried inside and should always be worn flat to the head (so he should be able to balance a pint on top!). LOUNGE LIZARD Smart, and easy for the suitphobic, the lounge suit is the least formal option to wear. Going for a colour theme? Blue has been big in menswear for some time, but grey is making a return; co-ordinate shirts with ties or bow ties to bring the look together. SMOOTH OPERATOR Dinner jackets are a great – equaliser all the lads can look good whether they buy or hire. If the two of you are going to a few…

Five minutes with… Stephanie Allin What has changed since you joined the industry? I started 25 years ago, so a lot has changed! I have seen many trends come and go and I love watching bridal fashion evolve. , KDYH GHfiQLWHOy QRWLFHG EULGDO being more high-fashion led than it ever used to be. My brides are always looking to try new styles and experiment by making a style their own using shrugs, belts and detachable skirts. Should brides buy off the peg? As a designer, I take great pleasure in creating dresses to fiW D EULGH SHUIHFWOy› 7KH EULGH will choose the style she loves from my samples and my team DQG , PDNH WKH GUHVV VSHFLfiFDOOy to her measurements. At the moment, I don’t have an off-the-peg collection for…

Sometimes you may barely have time to cross things off your wedmin to-do list, let alone indulge in beauty treatments. When things get hectic, overnight products are your best friend. Take the day off, apply your overnight treat of choice, use some sleep-inducing accessories and wake up looking like a dream.…

THE BRIDE: Hollie Bond, lifestyle editor at You & Your Wedding THE STYLIST: Lisa at John Olivers WHEN: Two months before the wedding PRICE: £50 THE EXPERIENCE: “I was very lucky with my hair trial; I showed my hairdresser three pictures I’d found online and she combined them all into a style I liked even more than the originals. It was SHUIHFW fiUVW WLPH ZKLFK › really reassured me that I’d chosen the right hairdresser for me. She trusted that I knew what I liked rather than pressuring me into something else – even down to the fact that I only feel right when my hair is freshly washed, so she was fiQH IRU PH ZDVK Py KDLU on the morning of the wedding rather than the day before as…

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Is entertainment essential at a wedding? This may seem a strange question to ask at the start of a guide dedicated to wedding entertainment – but it’s a valid one. After all, you’re already providing food and drink aplenty, and you’ve got all your favourite people in one place; what else do you need for the party of a lifetime? Well, the thing about weddings is that apart from a celebrant, two witnesses, and the two of you, nothing is essential; you don’t even need rings to make it legal. So, anything on top of those elements is about creating a wonderful experience to mark the day – something that will stay in your and your guests’ minds for years to come. That’s where entertainment comes in. And it doesn’t…

The key music choices to make for your ceremony are entrance and exit tracks (or processional and recessional, to give them their grander names). Don’t forget to take the rhythm into account – anything particularly fast or slow isn’t easy to walk to! Time how long your walk will take so you know when to set off. You may also want some tunes for pre-ceremony, as guests await your arrival, and for the period while you’re signing the register, to avoid a dip in the mood. When it comes to the drinks reception, anything goes! You could have a style that works nicely in the background, as guests happily chat away, or something with a bit more wow factor to kick the party off early. PLAYLIST MOOD RECESSIONAL MUSIC MUSIC…

“See if any friends have a ping-pong table gathering dust in the garage – it’ll go down well with guests of all ages” While some nuptials may be adult-only affairs, others are likely to have at least some kids attending. Whether you’ve got little ones of your own, or just didn’t want to leave family and friends’ children off the guest list, junior attendees will require an extra bit of advanced planning. Kids can get easily bored – and aren’t shy about letting grown-ups know about it. If you can keepthementertained,it’llimprove everyone’s day. THINK AGE AND SPACE First of all, consider the range of ages attending. A nine-year-old is never going to take the same pleasure in colouring-in, say, as a toddler, so if there’s a wide spread, make sure…

When it comes to wedding-breakfast music, most couples opt to keep it low-key. After all, people will want to talk, and if you’re having entertainment on top of the tunes, you don’t want the whole feast to start feeling chaotic. That said, you don’t want a live performer’s artistry drowned out by clanking cutlery and laughter. Let them know the room layout so they can work out where best to be in order to be heard at a background level. If you’re going down the DIY route (smartphone or tablet), make sure you, or a member of the party, know how to connect your device to the in-house speakers, or bring your own if that’s not an option. Then all you have to do is choose your playlist! PLAYLIST MOOD…

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