Table of contents for February - March 2016 in You and Your Wedding

ALEXANDRIA SCHIEFNER Based in Hampshire, but travelling all over the UK and beyond, Alexandria owns Alexandria Events, a bespoke wedding planning boutique. She styled the beautiful Pastels With Attitude shoot, packed full of original reception decor details to make your day stand out. Pore over the prettiness on p97 SALLY J SHIM Sally started blogging about crafts and family life in 2005. Known as one of the original craft bloggers, her site focuses on DIYs and packaging projects. We’ve chosen our favourite how-tos from her latest book, Be Mine, for you to try; they’ll make amazing favours and place names. Get crafting on p152 ASHLEE TAYLOR We’re delighted that fine art photographer Ashlee decided to share her stunning weddings with us. That’s right – weddings, plural – she…

WHERE TO START • Write your guest list• Decide on the budget• Set the date• Book the venue• Make it legal*• Send save the dates• Take out wedding insurance The official bits Unless you’re having a Church of England ceremony, you both need to give notice at your local register office at least 28 full days before your wedding. If you’re having a civil ceremony, you need to book a registrar at the office closest to your venue. Specifics depend on location (outdoor weddings are allowed in Scotland, but in England and Wales you need a licensed structure) and different religions have different rules. For further information, see gov.uk/marriages-civil-partnerships, yourchurchwedding.org, humanism.org.uk and gov.uk/marriage-abroad. 12-9 MONTHS Photographer Videographer Florist Dress Suit Guest accommodation 9-6 MONTHS Bridesmaids’ dresses Best man & ushers’ outfits Flower girl and pageboy outfits Stationery…

Planning your wedding can be a real battle between head and heart. You know exactly what you ought to do: stick to your budget and avoid overspending. However, that’s easier said than done when you’re arranging a day that means so much – this isn’t just any party. It’s all too easy to let your, ahem, less sensible side take over. But help is at hand. We’ve identified the most common budget-busting “villains” – those tendencies that can derail your budget, despite your best intentions. We’ve also found their superhero opposites, to help you get your finances under control. Let battle commence! CAPTAIN COMPLACENCY VS EFFICIENCY GIRL The budget villain Do you avoid looking at your bank balance for weeks on end? Is your pile of unopened bills now taller…

THE COUPLE Emily & Simon Emily Blake, 25, and Simon Burgoyne, 34, held their ceremony at St Mark’s church, St John’s Wood, and their reception at Langan’s Brasserie, Mayfair, London When you think of a winter wedding, what do you picture? We’re guessing dark tones, berry-brights and a generous sprinkling of sparkle. But Emily and Simon proved you can bring a graceful spring-like sensibility to a celebration in the colder months. For their January “I do”, Emily worked closely with florist Petal & Grace to select softly textured blooms, including white lilac, lisianthus and viburnum, for a loose, natural look. Decorative accessories were kept to a minimum: flowers overflowing from urns and a floral altarpiece at the romantic church ceremony; at the reception, a scattering of tea lights around the…

A TOUCH OF TAILORED ANDROGYNY THE NEW CLASSIC COMBO AND ACCESSORISE.... LAID-BACK LUXE + COSY VIBES…

1 After applying primer on eyelid, apply soft pink taupe with a blending brush from crease to the brow. With shadow brush, highlight entire brow bone with light beige satin, blending it well. 2 Line lash line, ensuring that it is slightly thicker at outer corner and smudge out with smudger brush. Then, apply deep plum taupe with a blending brush on lid and crease, blending it up and out and over lower lash line. 3 Blend matte cool taupe with the tapered crease brush into edge of deep plum-taupe and into crease. With the smudger brush, wrap cool taupe matte around eye and soften edges of lower lash line. Highlight inner corner with champagne shimmer. HOT RIGHT NOW! 3 OF THE BEST KEEP GLOWING BEAUTY SLEEP Put your best…

Finding the right foundation shade is a lot like trying to find The One – it should be a perfect match and you shouldn’t have to settle for anything less. Thankfully, the days of buying two bottles and blending them are over as The Body Shop has come up with a genius idea to finally get the perfect shade. Available in both lightening and darkening options, one drop transforms your foundation half a shade lighter or darker. The drops don’t change the texture or coverage of your foundation but do have an illuminating quality to give you a gorgeous glow! Shade Adjusting Drops, £10 for 15ml, The Body Shop…

La Réserve, Saint-Jean-de-Luz STAY On a hill high above The Atlantic sits Hôtel La Réserve, a friendly four-star retreat. Many of the minimalist rooms have sea views; waking up to the warm sun flooding through the windows and the sound of the waves crashing below is pure heaven. SEE Head into nearby Biarritz, the birthplace of surfing in Europe, and marvel as the experts take to the huge waves. Closer to home are the medieval streets of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. This quaint town is the centre of the Basque country and along its narrow roads you’ll find Maison Adam, the original macaron shop. DO The infinity pool is the place to be at sunrise or sunset, with its far-reaching views over the ocean. If you prefer a glass of wine in hand…

12-9 MONTHS Dresses, details and deadlines, oh my! Where to begin once you’ve said you will In the beginning… Get ready to drink a lot of champagne as you spread the word to family and friends. This is a good time to gather inspiration. Storing all your ideas in one place means you won’t forget anything, whether you choose to create a cutout-and-keep wedding file (including plenty of pictures from Y&YW, of course) or use an online mood board service like Pinterest – check out pinterest.com/ youyourwedding. If you fancy some wedding chat, the Y&YW forum (youand yourwedding.co.uk/forum) is a great place to swap ideas with others. Choose the bridal party The sooner you appoint your maids, ushers and best man, the sooner your favourite guys and gals can start…

£421 is the average cost a bride will spend on registrar/ church fees* The ceremony – the most crucial part of the day – is surprisingly easy to overlook in the whirlwind of flowers, outfits and cake. Make it memorable by taking time to think about how you want to get wed. CIVIL This is a non-religious legal ceremony that takes place in a register office or local authority-approved venue, which can be anything from a barn or hotel to a zoo or aquarium. An outdoor “I do” is possible in England and Wales, as long as you exchange vows under a permanent structure, such as a pergola. In addition to the required legal wording, you can usually add your own personalised vows and readings, provided they have no religious…

THE MAGIC NUMBER Brides typically look at 15 venues online, shortlist 5 and visit 3 * Trust us: searching for a wedding venue is fun. Yes, the process can seem daunting at first, given the sheer number of stunning spaces out there. But when else do you get the chance to nose around rustic pubs, glamorous barns, hot city hotels and elegant country houses? The good news is, there’s an easy way to narrow down the options; all you have to do is ask yourself some questions. WHAT DO WE WANT FROM THE DAY? Think about weddings you’ve been to and which elements you found most enjoyable. If your idea of heaven is a fabulous feast, look at places known for their cuisine, or venues that will let you bring…

It’s not compulsory to have a wedding party, but getting your nearest and dearest involved can add to the fun factor. Here are the key roles to consider. MAID OF HONOUR Your chief bridesmaid, often abbreviated to MoH. This is likely to be a relative or close friend. She’s your go-to gal for practical and emotional support. She’ll organise the hen party, help you shop for the dress and co-ordinate the other bridesmaids, and you may ask her to keep an eye on your outfit on the day (watching your train and holding your bouquet at key moments etc). Is your top pick for this important role male? No problem – just call him your Man of Honour. How to choose This should be someone reliable, calm in a crisis…

I spend my days jetting around the world to meet designers and get a sneak preview of their gorgeous new creations. Yes, I love my job, but it takes a lot of stamina – at New York Bridal Week (one of the hottest events of the wedding fashion calendar), I went to 30 catwalk shows in just four days. That translates to around 600 dresses in less than a week! All the running around is totally worth it, because I get to source the new trends and turn them into the covetable and wearable looks you see on our pages – so you can find The One. I also found time for a post-show chat with Hervé Moreau, creative director at Pronovias, the Spanish design house whose dreamy dresses have…

SHAPE UP This clever trompe-l’oeil design makes for an eye-catching cake. Cakes, £225 (two tier) or £750 (three tier), The Cake Parlour. Flowers, from a selection, Philippa Craddock Flowers ALL TIED UP Nothing says romance quite like hand-tied pink roses. Bouquet, from £50, McQueens WE LOVE! ...cute cameras. Place one of these crystal covered beauties on each table – the perfect ice-breaker. Diana F+ Chrome, £89, Lomography THINK PINK These stylish invites have modern romance written all over them. Invitation, from around £83, Ashley Buzzy Lettering LOVE LETTERS Bling up your favour boxes with these sparkly stickers. Glitter alphabet stickers, £4.95 per pack, Pipii PITCHER THIS Big blowsy blooms in metallic jugs are perfect for rustic centrepieces. Zinc Pitcher Vase, £13.50, Lilac Coast On display Create a modern take on…

SEND INVITES EIGHT TO 12 WEEKS BEFORE THE DAY CONFIRM FINAL NUMBERS WITH VENUE DRAW UP A RUNNING ORDER & DISTRIBUTE TO SUPPLIERS ORDER THANK YOU CARDS FINALISE MENU RECONFIRM ALL BOOKINGS CHOOSE READINGS, HYMNS AND CEREMONY MUSIC CHOOSE FAVOURS & GIFTS FOR WEDDING PARTY SET THE SEATING PLAN MAKE FINAL PAYMENTS (TRACK THE TOTAL ON A SPREADSHEET) REMIND BRIDESMAIDS, USHERS ETC OF ANY ON-THE-DAY DUTIES SEND READINGS TO SPEAKERS (AND BRING EXTRA COPIES ON THE DAY)…

THE COUPLE Sophie & Oli Sophie Stead, 30, and Oliver Lane, 32, held their ceremony at Chelsea Old Church and reception at Syon Park, London Sophie and Oli fell in love with the light-filled Great Conservatory at Syon Park – the perfect setting for an indoor garden party. “We wanted a fresh and airy feeling to the day,” says Sophie. “We didn’t have a set theme, but we did know we wanted our wedding to be personal, fun, green and garden-like.” For floral inspiration, the couple visited London’s Columbia Road Flower Market and bought a whole assortment of blooms and foliage. Sophie played around with different arrangements and combinations, and sent pictures of the results to Sweet Pea Flowers, who came up with the finished look. “We went with coral…

“Heath Barn was perfect for our festival theme – it had glamping fields, a bluebell wood, a hot tub and shepherd’s huts” TOP TIPPLE For their pre-reception drinks, the couple served vodka cocktails, infused with passion fruit and mango to give them a summer celebration twist. Guests were also treated to a bottle of the spirit to take home. THE COUPLE Ella & Roman Ella Guilding, 33, and Roman Wroath, 31, held their ceremony and reception at Heath Barn in Gloucestershire Ella and Roman’s wedding was a wonderfully varied mix of personalised touches and romantic references. Roman’s Russian heritage gave the day its striking red colour scheme, while Ella’s love of festivals inspired the choice of tepee venue. The couple also served Caribbean cuisine to reflect where they got engaged…

Come over all Audrey Hepburn in a bow-adorned veil, made modern with a chic two-piece (yes,really) dress.…

BOHEMIAN BRIDE Fall in love with Flora’s 2016 collection of stunning gowns with hand-embroidered and beaded details. With a range of styles, including short, fitted and the hotter-than-hot two-piece, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Undercover agent Sculpt your silhouette to perfection in this corset, £1295, Soirée by Agent Provocateur ARM CANDY For the perfect big-day bling, we love this Darling Kiss Me Charm Bracelet, £275, Mawi WE LOVE! Put your best foot forward in these gorgeous wedding wedges, £195, Freya Rose MODERN HEIRLOOM Claire Pettibone has collaborated with Trumpet & Horn on a vintage-inspired ring collection. We adore this blue beauty, $4550 (approx. £2965). 3 of the best PENDANTS A-LIST GLAMOUR Known and loved for its embellished party dresses, Needle & Thread has launched a bridal collection that’s…

Come on, we’re all hippies at heart. So what could be more perfect for a country wedding or loft-style apartment event than going boho? It’s right on trend and so easy to wear. Whatever your everyday style, you can edit the look for you, whether it’s tassels and bold prints or a more streamlined take on the look. TOP TIP For added ’70s vibes, throw on a pair of sunglasses – super glam! WEAR WITH THE PERFECT COVER-UP TWINKLE TOES Flats can be fancy. These slippers from Boden, £99, prove it. CATWALK INSPIRATION…

SHINE ON Soft metallics are an uber-stylish alternative to the smoky eye. Combine with a matte foundation and a nude lip.…

The day after having my extensions fitted I walked into the office (having told no one before) and was met with exclamations of “your hair has gotten so long!” and slightly puzzled expressions as people tried to figure out if my hair has always been this long. It hasn’t, of course, but that’s a sure sign of good extension wizardry. I’d considered having extensions before but was always worried that I’d end up with a dodgy-looking set, or worse, end up with no hair at all! So when I heard about Vixen & Blush, which specialises in safe, damage-free extensions, I booked in immediately! On the day of my fitting, I met Dani who quickly put me at ease as she explained the process. Holding up long locks of Russian…

Every bride wants glowing skin on her big day. That’s where this powerhouse of a facial, using both the A-Lift and Dermatude treatments, comes in. This is a highly-effective, non-invasive treatment that reaches deep into the dermis. A-Lift uses nano-currents to accelerate cell metabolism boosting collagen and elastin, while Dermatude uses serums and lifting technology, followed by a tiny needle head, which makes micro-perforations into the upper layer of the skin (with no pain we promise – if anything it tickles). As a result, the skin moves into natural repair mode and starts producing collagen and elastin to repair the micro-perforations The result: fabulous skin after 24 hours. From £70, nouveaubeautygroup.com/salon-fnder…

When the first humans blinked their creepy little semi-evolved eyelids 2.5 million years ago, they needed two things: feeding and watering. Consider all of your guests to be equal to these Neanderthals. They want food, they want drink – and they want you to pay for at least some of it. Drinking alcohol: some of us do, some of us don’t. One of those groups deserves your suspicion. Sarah, why even come? Stop telling me how you pity people who have to drink to have fun; I have to drink to have fun because you’re here, SARAH. Not even gin makes you bearable. However, those of you who have ever woken up in some kind of refuse unit will know only too well that there is a moment where you…

HOTEL TANNENHOF St Anton, Austria You won’t have to lift a finger at this pretty hotel. Staff are on hand to carry your skis and run warming after-dinner baths, hoteltannenhof.net THE CHEDI ANDERMATT Andermatt, Switzerland This Swiss beauty has ski butlers to warm your ski boots… enough said! ghmhotels.com/en/andermatt PETITE MARMOTTE Le Portetta, Courchevel, France This former hayloft in the grounds of Le Portetta Hotel has been turned into the ultimate one bedroom ski-in, ski-out love nest, portetta.com ROSA ALPINA San Cassiano, Italy This chalet-style hotel has a chocolate box private mountain cabin, 6,500ft up in the Dolomites for a first night to remember, rosalpina.it TSCHUGGEN GRAND HOTEL Arosa, Switzerland Skiing is just one of many activities at this hotel with its super spa, private mountain railway and gourmet restaurants,…

3D HOLOGRAM VIDEOGRAPHY Every bride wishes she could enjoy her wedding day over and over again and, in the future, you’ll be able to. Forget craning at a TV screen trying to pick out all the pretty details on your wedding DVD; instead, you can really relive the day “as a guest” in the form of a 3D hologram video. Imagine the Jaws hologram billboard in Back to the Future II, but for your whole wedding day! PRINTABLE WEDDING DRESSES By 2066, sewing machines will be relegated to the shelves of fashion museums to make way for 3D printers. Brides will be able to choose the design they like from an online catalogue of designers, print it and, voil› – one wedding dress made to order will appear before their…

For many couples, setting the budget is the least fun part of planning. We sympathise. It is, however, a necessary evil: taking a spend-as-you-go approach is best left to those with unlimited funds. THE FIRST STEP Naturally, your first financial step will be to work out the total amount you’ve got to play with, including any contributions from parents. After that, the simplest method is to allocate a percentage of this total to each area of the wedding. The average breakdown of some of the big-ticket items is as follows*: Remember, this is just a guideline, not a commandment. Our advice is for couples to work out what’s important to them, then dial different wedding areas up or down accordingly. For example, if music is a huge part of your…

• Get creative with your decor We love scented foral arches, petal-strewn aisles and backdrops of streamers. • Have fun with the order of service You can add favourite quotes or short biographies of the bridal party. • Music makes all the difference Celebrate with a much-loved song as you exit. • Don’t forget the lighting Candles give a romantic, intimate feel, while lanterns in different hues add a colour pop. • Who says you have to have paper confetti? Hand out packets of glitter, rose petals or lavender, bottles of bubbles, ribbon wands or little bells, so long as your venue agrees. • Ask your ushers… to distribute colouring books to keep little guests occupied during the vows.…

• The practicalities How is payment handled? Is there a minimum spend? Is VAT included? Will there be another wedding on the day? Is there parking? Do guests get an accommodation discount? When do you need final numbers? Is there a plan B for outdoor weddings? • The small print Are glassware, linens, chairs etc included? Can we have candles, fireworks and confetti? Are there sound restrictions? What time does it have to finish? • Decorations How much can we personalise the venue? When can we have access? Will you help? • Food and drink Can we bring our own drink and, if so, is there a corkage fee? Can we choose our caterers? Do you offer tastings? What are the evening buffet options?…

• Being a witness This involves signing the register to confirm the legality of your marriage. You need two, and can often have more. • Doing a reading or song Asking someone to sing or read out some meaningful words during the ceremony is a lovely way to include them. • MC Announces dinner and the speeches – the perfect role for someone with a big personality. • Someone blue Ask your pals to add a dash of navy or sapphire to their outfits (think tie, jewellery, corsage), so they can be your “something blue”. • Don’t ask them to... Man the guestbook, hand out drinks, take coats – anything that implies unpaid labour. Sometimes you just have to let guests be guests.…

• Plus ones Partners are a yes for married couples or guests in long-term relationships. As for the rest, the key is kindness. If a guest won’t know many people or if they’re travelling a long way, it’s nice to let them bring someone. Worried about an aisle-full of strangers? Throw a pre-W-day dinner so you can get to know them. • Family & colleagues It’s all about consistency. If you invite some cousins and not others, or choose your favourite desk-mate over your pal in accounts, you risk hurt feelings. • Children This is a personal choice: for some, weddings just aren’t right without tiny tots; for others, mini guests are a no-no. What’s more, some venues aren’t small-person-friendly. Whatever you decide, make it clear on the invites. It’s…

• Wine Build your own wine cellar full of reds and whites to enjoy in years to come (majestic.co.uk). • Homemade heaven Yes, Etsy fans, it’s true: you can set up a gift list with the site. For the uninitiated: that means handcrafted treats, from decor to jewellery (etsy.com). • Baby essentials Wearing a maternity wedding dress? Congrats – and think about setting up a list full of newborn essentials (mothercare.com). • Art Cover your walls with original artwork (affordableartfair.com). • Home improvements Give your nest a makeover with help from your nearest and dearest (diy.com). • Cultural objets For stylish keepsakes, set up a list at a museum or gallery shop (vandashop.com, culturelabel.com).…

• Bespoke or custom Created just for you. • Semi-customised An existing design that you can personalise. • Printable Often free templates: download, add names and details, then print. • Engraving Printing that gives raised lettering – classic, but expensive. Thermography gives a similar effect without the price tag. • Laser cut A precision technique used to cut out intricate shapes and words. • Letterpress Letters or patterns are stamped into the card. • Foil stamping Creating a shiny or matte metallic finish; works for a range of colours. • Digital printing A professional printing method that’s quick and inexpensive, giving a smooth finish. For slightly higher quality (and price), try offset printing.…

Chances are, your wedding day will fly by in a happy blur of talking and toasting, so having the right photos will let you relive the whole story in detail. START EARLY Popular photographers usually get booked up 12-18 months in advance, although you may find there’s more fexibility for weekday weddings. SORT YOUR STYLE There are almost as many different styles as there are wedding photographers, ranging through the classic posed “portraiture” approach to totally hands-off “reportage”. Some snappers aim for a soft and romantic effect; others are more about crystal-clear images. Go through real weddings in magazines and blogs, particularly celebrations at similar venues to yours, and make a note of any photographers whose work catches your eye. Elements to look for include how they capture the lighting,…

Your cake and flower choices can make a big difference to the look of your day. Here’s how to get them right. THINK SIZE AND SPACE Subtle foral arrangements in light shades can easily get lost in a large room with high ceilings. Keep in mind that your tables aren’t the only parts of the venue that will benefit from some fower power: you can use blooms to highlight special features, such as fireplaces or beams. If your cake is to be a focal point, think about where it should be placed, and what colour and height will ensure it stands out. You’ll also need to know the number of guests so you can order the right size. REFLECT ON THE MOOD Blooms in particular can affect the feel of…

• Canapés Bite-sized treats usually circulated at the drinks reception. • Bowl food Rather like a cross between canapés and a buffet: bowls of mini main courses served to guests by waiters with trays. • Finger buffet Made up of dishes you can eat with your hands, such as quiche, sandwiches etc. • Fork buffet Made up of dishes that require the use of cutlery. • Charger Large plate that’s purely decorative. • Linens Tablecloth and napkins. • Flatware Another word for cutlery. • Corkage A charge made by the venue for serving wine you’ve provided, on a per-bottle basis.…

TELL US, FACEBOOK BRIDES! Will you ban guests from taking photos at the ceremony? Kerrie S I would love to see guests enjoying the ceremony without looking at their phones. Enjoy the moment that is unfolding before your eyes! Kelly M I wouldn’t want everyone taking pics at the ceremony and then putting them all over Facebook before I see them. Alysanne P Our friends took some lovely photos at our wedding and it was nice looking at them the next day. I really appreciated all the pics my friends took. STEAL THESE DETAILS Check out a new real wedding on Twitter, Instagram and the website every week MOOD BOARD of the month “A plain sponge is a perfect base for lavish designs. Or, if your style is fuss-free, a…

Do you have your heart set on an exquisite gown for your wedding, but your budget won’t stretch to a designer price tag? At this exclusive sample sale, you’ll have the chance to get your hands on highly sought-after dresses for a snip of the normal cost. Prices start at just £700, with up to 75% off both gowns and shoes. The sale is free and by appointment only, but a donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is welcomed. It takes place on Sunday 21 February 2016 at London’s stunning new hotel and wedding venue, the Hilton London Bankside in the Bankside Ballroom. There will be pieces from Claire Pettibone, Catherine Deane, Suzanne Neville and more in sizes six to 12. There will also be a wide selection of designer…

Bridal BAROMETER SO HOT! KIDULT-FRIENDLY FAVOURS Party bubbles in the shape of mini ice cream cones? Yes, please. £2, weddinginateacup.co.uk CULINARY MASH-UPS Coming soon to smart wedding menus: unusual combinations, such as French-American and Italian-Japanese, blending the best of both cuisines FOODIE HEN DOS Candy crafting, a gastro tour of London’s Borough Market, chocolate making… roll up your sleeves for some edible fun with your pals, chillisauce.co.uk CAIPIRINHAS Set to soar in popularity as all eyes turn to Brazil for the Olympic Games in Rio this year. Really simple to make, too – you just need limes, ice, sugar and cachaça. SO NOT! MINIMALIST PLACE SETTINGS We heart these cute bows– they’re great for adding interest to napkins, brooklynbridal.uk OUTRAGEOUS FOOD DEMANDS “I don’t like that.…

“Nothing is more sophisticated than black,” says stylist Elisabetta White, who created a reception look of refined glamour. “We opted for a black and white colour base, with accents of gold and marble grey.” This colour combination runs though every detail: metallic touches on the monochrome stationery by Kate Ruth Romey; black and gold-foiled patterns on the Olofson Design cake; and inky-hued plates contrasting with a sequined tablecloth. But beautiful blooms, including agapanthus and Star of Bethlehem, keep the look soft. “With so many black, grey and gold details, we needed to add some lightness to the overall feel – flowers inject a vibrant, romantic touch.” THE DREAM TEAM Photography fionasweddingphotography.co.uk Planning & styling Elisabetta White, formerly linenandsilk-weddings.com Flowers ivypipandrose.co.uk Venue thegreenwichlondon.com Tablecloths & cake stand…

The UK Wedding Awards 2016 will reward your favourite wedding brands – all the individuals and independents, the high-street favourites and the designer brands who help make your journey from just-engaged to married couple as fun and magical as possible. This is your chance to tell us who you love. CATEGORIES Best Bridal Designer Best Bridal Accessories Best Bridal Collection Best Groomswear Best High Street Retailer Best Jewellery Best Mother of the Bride Retailer Best Wedding Boutique Best Barn Venue Best Castle Venue Best Coastal Venue Best Country Venue Best Historic Venue Best Sporting Venue Best Stately Home Best Wedding Photographer Best Wedding Stationery Best Wedding Cake Company Best Wedding Florist Best Wedding Travel Company Best Retailer Gift List Visit youandyour  wedding.co.uk/awards* to cast your votes and for…

“I love peonies! They were in season so we were spoilt for choice when it came to blooms” THE COUPLE Gabi & Chris Gabi Webb, 31, and Chris Sheen, 31, held their ceremony and reception at Almonry Barn in Somerset When you’re surrounded by wedding inspiration on a daily basis, how do you whittle down the ideas for your own big day? This was the conundrum faced by Gabi, director of Sweetpea Bridal PR, who spent 18 months choosing her favourite suppliers and sourcing all the stylish details she’d fallen in love with at work. The finished look was a pretty pink and gold extravaganza with a popcorn bar, name place biscuits and light-up table numbers. “I went to town with the personalisation,” says Gabi. “For months, anything that moved…

There’s nothing like a vibrant colour to bring a smile to your face. Who could be grumpy in such gorgeously vivid hues? Not us! Dare to dress your best girls in block-coloured dresses for statement style or really go for it with boldly-coloured accessories for a look that’s uniquely them. Say hello to a bright future… TOP TIP Have fun clashing colours for a standout look WEAR WITH TURN UP THE TECHNICOLOUR CATWALK INSPIRATION…

I’m so excited for you to take a peek at our latest beauty box that’s been carefully curated just for You & Your Wedding readers. As with all our boxes, the YYW team has tested every single product personally to make sure we’re bringing you the best of bridal beauty, and this time it’s been created with Valentine’s Day in mind – perfect for date night and pre-date pampering! All of the products are full-sized (no teeny tiny sample bottles in our boxes!) which means that for less than £25 you’re getting £115 worth of products! Wowee! Tweet us @youyourwedding Naughty Massage & Body Oil (RRP £12) I’m a huge fan of oils. They are so nourishing and always guaranteed to smell so wonderful. This oil is the perfect accompaniment…

WHEN SHOULD I START GETTING MY SKIN READY FOR W-DAY? The better prepped your skin is, the longer your make-up will last and the smoother it will look. With this in mind, you should make sure that you have a good skincare routine at least eight weeks before the big day and avoid facials for three weeks before to avoid breakouts. HOW CAN I MAKE SURE MY MAKE-UP LOOKS GREAT IN THE WEDDING ALBUM? Look for photo-friendly foundations or tinted moisturisers, as these will ensure that your make-up looks even in the photos. For brides looking for high coverage that will last the whole day, try Laura Mercier Silk Crème Photo Edition Foundation (£35), which handily comes in both oil-free and moisturising formulas and gives you a luminous finish. OUR…

A fan of the classic feline flick, Sam is searching for an eyeliner that will last the duration on W-day… Colorsport 24 Hour Eyeliner, £7.75 This was the best by far. As the name suggests, this eyeliner promises to stay put from morning ’til night – and it does. EASE OF APPLICATION 5/5 COLOUR INTENSITY 4/5 LASTING POWER 5/5 Eyeko Sport Waterproof Eyeliner, £15 With a promise to last through all the sweat of sports, I had high hopes, but by lunchtime it had pretty much melted away. EASE OF APPLICATION 4/5 COLOUR INTENSITY 3/5 LASTING POWER 3/5 Models Own Kohl Eyeliner Pencil, £3.99 Not too soft, not too hard, it created an even, long-lasting line. EASE OF APPLICATION 4/5 COLOUR INTENSITY 4/5 LASTING POWER 4/5 Suqqu Gel Eyeliner Pencil,…

1 Is there any better way to celebrate the big day than with something decent to sip on? With two bottles of Veuve Clicquot for just £55 and six bottles of Kumala Western Cape for £16 onboard a P&O ferry from Dover to Calais, the answer is obvious, and won’t hurt your wallet. 2 Smelling as beautiful as the bridal bouquet is an absolute must. But it needn’t break the piggybank. Make the congregation’s nostrils thoroughly jealous with Jimmy Choo Illicit 100ml at just £62.40 (RRP £78), and Paco Rabanne Olympea EDP 80ml for £55.20 (RRP £69) onboard. 3 Why not show the bridesmaids some love without burning a hole in your (wedding dress) pocket? Elegant Orelia Thank You Gift Cards are the perfect way of saying, well, thank you,…

Sandals is giving Y&YW readers the chance to win a fantastic 10-night honeymoon in Antigua and Saint Lucia. The lucky winning couple will enjoy five nights on each island in a Luxury Included® (all-inclusive) deluxe room. When there’s so much to do and see in the Caribbean, Sandals knows it can be difficult to decide which island is your perfect destination. And with 15 luxurious resorts spread across six tropical islands, how do you pick just one? Fortunately, you don’t have to. Sandals allows you to combine two, three or even four islands to create a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon with its tailor-made Island Hopping package, so your honeymoon will be unique to you. Best of all, Sandals’ romantic resorts are all-inclusive, so you can just focus on relaxing and having fun…

Whether you’re newly engaged or weeks away from getting wed, many congratulations! This is our engagement present to you: an all-in-one planning guide, with everything you need to create the celebration you deserve. We know it’s not always easy to work out what to do when, so we’ve started with a no-panic timeline. We’ve covered the basics – budget, ceremony, venue, dress – as well as essential details such as guest and gift lists, photography and invites. There’s even a handy notes page, so you can scribble down ideas. Our number one planning tip? Enjoy every moment. That may sound strange given that there’s an awful lot to do on your journey to the aisle, and yes, there may be a few bumps in the road. But the first thing…

• The venue Make sure you know exactly what the quoted price includes, down to the tiniest detail. Typical “extras” that can unexpectedly bump up your bill include security, cleaning and cloakroom staff. • The suppliers Always check whether their fee includes travel expenses and whether you’re expected to feed them on the day. It’s not compulsory, but you may want to give some of them a financial thank you on the day, so do factor in tips. • The photos Album costs and additional prints can increase your post-wedding bill significantly. • The dress If you’re not planning on selling this afterwards, bear in mind that a specialist cleaning and storage service can be pretty pricey.…

Whether you’re going high street or bridal boutique, sample sale or bespoke, read our top tips for finding The One. ASSESS YOUR STYLE Your venue is one of the key elements to take into account. Nothing’s stopping you wearing a modern sculptural mini at your formal country-house affair, but you’ll probably feel more comfortable in something that at least gives a nod to your wedding vibe. Think about practicalities, too: a long train or fitted fishtail may not be the best choice for garden games or dancing the night away. And don’t forget the season – a foaty Grecian gown in winter may not feel like such a good idea when you’re turning blue in the photos. STAY OPEN-MINDED Every boutique owner has a story about a bride who hated…

26% of you will keep guests entertained with a photo booth while you’re having couple shots* After months of planning, it’s important to ensure that every carefully chosen element of your day has a moment in the spotlight. It’s a task that’s akin to being the director of a show as well as the leading lady and requires serious organisation. Every member of the behind-the-scenes crew, from the hair stylist and caterer to the photographer and DJ, needs to know well in advance when they’re required and how they fit into the overall big day timings. BRIDAL BEAUTY Ever wondered how celebrities always look so good in photos? It’s because they spend half their lives in hair and makeup. That’s why it’s worth allocating plenty of time before the ceremony…

£186 is the average amount a bride will spend on stationery* 1 PONDER YOUR PERFECT PARTY Each different event size has its own advantages. If you go big (say, 200 plus), you’ll be able to include all your nearest and dearest, as well as filling the dance foor for a night to remember. However, if you trim your list to around 100, you’ll find a wider choice of venues. A smaller gathering of around 50 guests means you’ll be able to include personal touches that would be too time-consuming at a large affair, such as handwritten thank-you notes at every place setting. A super-intimate affair (just you, your partner and your best friends) allows you to arrange a seriously decadent dinner. 2 KNOW WHAT YOUR LIMITS ARE The main factors…

Your guests will want to get you presents as part of the celebration. Rather than wearily accepting five identical cake stands, it’s sensible to set up a gift list (also known as a registry). But what should you ask for? CLASSIC HOMEWARES Chances are, you already own the essentials – fridge, furniture and their domestic friends. This, therefore, is your chance to upgrade. Got your eye on a Nespresso machine? Fancy some silky-soft new bed linen? Have at it. There’s a wealth of places to fulfill your desires, from online directories to high street department stores. Do spread your requests across a wide price range, to accommodate guests of different budgets. One way of doing this is opting for sets, like entirely new crockery or towels, from which people can…

Your wedding stationery is so much more than pretty paper and matching envelopes. On the practical side, this is how you give guests all the information they need to enjoy the day, particularly the crucial when and where. On a more emotional level, your invitations are the first glimpse your friends and family will have of what you’re planning. And it’s not just about the invites – there are many different types of stationery you can use to help everything run smoothly and add a sense of style. SAVE THE DATE These are a good idea if you want to give plenty of notice, particularly if you’re saying “I do” abroad or in the peak wedding period – spring and summer – and to avoid clashing with booked holidays. A…

…order Allow around six months for a fully bespoke design to avoid checking proofs in a rush. For semi-customised, six to eight weeks should do it. It’s one invite per household, not per person. Be smart and order spares – around 5% of the total – just in case of extra guests. …send Traditionally, invites go out six to eight weeks before the big day, but we say the earlier, the better. We recommend four months in advance, or even a year if travel is involved. Check postage costs before you start sticking on stamps, and include your return address on envelopes so you’ll know if any don’t reach their destination. …ask for RSVPs Find out from your caterer and venue exactly when they’ll need final numbers and set your…

GETTING READY Your dress on the hanger Your shoes Your jewellery Engagement ring and wedding bands Close-up dress details You having your make-up applied Your hair You and your mum Dad’s first sight of you You and your dad You with both parents Bridesmaids’ dresses Your bouquet You with your MoH You with your fower girls You getting into the car THE CEREMONY Exterior Interior Pew ends Flower arrangements Guests arriving Groom waiting at the aisle You and your dad arriving You and your dad walking down the aisle The moment your groom first sees you Exchanging vows Wide-angle view Exchanging rings The kiss You and your groom leaving Confetti throwing PRE-RECEPTION You and your groom You and your bridesmaids Groom and best man Groom, best man and ushers Bridal…

WHAT TEMPTS YOUR TASTE BUDS? The traditional sit-down wedding breakfast is always in style, but if you feel this won’t suit your theme (or budget), there are many mouth-watering alternatives. The ever-popular hog roast is perfect for rustic-luxe parties, while a scattering of food trucks would be ideal for a wedfest. Having a romantic garden party? A substantial afternoon tea on vintage china or a picnic served from wicker hampers has real wow factor, and should keep costs down. If you’re set on seated dining but want to add an element of informality, consider family-style: large platters of food on each table for guests to pass around – it’s a great ice-breaker. WHAT ARE YOUR DRINKS DESIRES? You don’t have to start with champagne; serving your favourite cocktail will add…

FAMILY FUN Music Get all guests great and small on the foor with a ceilidh or barn dance. Entertainment Book a magician or caricaturist, and consider hiring a bouncy castle or giant Jenga for outdoor enjoyment. COUNTRY HOUSE ELEGANCE Music A string quartet or harpist during the drinks reception, followed by a 1930s-style tea dance, a jazz group or swing band. Entertainment Garden games such as boules and croquet. IN THE CITY Music Chill-out tunes during dinner, then a superstar DJ (we heart Disco Wed and Wedding Smashers) for the dancing. Or try Stick It On, which lets you and your guests take it in turns to DJ with professional equipment. Entertainment A casino with fake money for buying chips. BARN STORMING Music Fun and funky band – mariachi or…