My Wedding Planner 2011

WeddingWeddingPLANNER

Your guide to local wedding services and facilitieseverything you need to make your special day perfect!

WeddingWeddingMY

WeddingWedding2011

SPO1364_myweddingplanner.indd 1 14/09/2010 5:30PM

Briars Hall Hotel Briars lane, Nr ormskirk lancs l40 5tH tel: 01704 892368 www.briarshallhotel.co.uk

1091773

Weddingand Function Venue

West lancashire’s Premier

Hold your fabulous wedding event for under £3000

Price based on 40 guests attending your wedding breakfast and 80 guests attending evening buffet for

Friday or Saturday weddings

Also midweek wedding pAckAges available from £25per person

The ideal venue centrally located in the historic village of Lathom with perfect country setting, only 15 minutes drive from Switch

Island and Southport town centre

your CoMPlete PaCKage inCludes:a drink on arrival for all your guests3 course meal to include coffee2 glasses of wine with your meala glass of sparkling wine for the toastan evening buffet for your guestsa master of ceremonies for your entire dayHire of the function room for the dayChair covers with colour co-ordinated organza for your wedding breakfastthe honeymoon suite for the bride & groom

2 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


So you’ve taken the plunge and decided to get married …

congratulations!

Planning your wedding to the one you love and want to

spend the rest of your life with is an extremely exciting time, if

not slightly daunting.

After the engagement celebrations the bride-and-groom-

to-be face months of research, decisions and spending to

ensure the big day does not disappoint.

My Wedding Planner will guide you through the most

important elements of your wedding to consider – the cake, the

venue, the dress, the reception, through to the hair and make-

up, photography and reception – and everything in between.

Wedding plans can sometime cause stress and tension

in the family, with everyone having their own ideas of how

it should be done. Remember to include your family and

friends in your plans – they may even have some good ideas

– but do not let them take over.

It is your day so everything should be just as you want

it. Take a deep breath and make the most of all the expert

services available to you. This guide will ease you through

the decision-making process, provide you with a wealth of

tips, advice and information and hopefully make your wedding

planning as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

If in doubt, ask one of the experts featured in this guide.

They all have a wealth of experience and will be able to

answer all your burning questions.

You will remember your wedding day for the rest of your

lives, so make sure it is for the right reasons.

It is worth all the fuss and effort – and all the cash.

Editor Louisa Austin Advertising Paul Palmer Design Mike Rose

PUBLISHED BY

Champion Media GroupClare House, 166 Lord Street,

Southport, PR9 0QATelephone : 01704 392 392

www.champnews.com© 2010 CMG. All rights reserved.

Information contained herein believed correctat time of going to press but subject to change

without notice. E&OE.

Introduction

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 3


TITHE BARN I MEOLS HALL I CHURCHTOWN I SOUTHPORTTelephone: 01704 228326 I www.meolshall.com

Meols Hall is Southport's historical manor house dating back to the early 12th Century. Set in one hundred acres of private park land close to the picturesque village of Churchtown, this is one of the oldest settlements on the Lancashire coast.

Situated within the grounds of Meols Hall you will find the Tithe Barn which provides one of the most beautiful settings for a wedding anywhere in England.

The Tithe Barn is one of the finest examples of it's kind in the country, this beautiful 400 year old barn has been meticulously restored by local craftsmen and retains all its original and authentic features combined with every facility for your comfort.

The candlelit Tithe Barn is available for wedding ceremonies and receptions for up to 120 with additional evening guests.

Planning a wedding? Look no further…

1090848Annual Wedding Evening - 6th July 2011

4 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


It is hard work planning a wedding - the fl owers, the photography, the venue, the outfi ts, the invitations...the list of tasks goes on and on.

It has been reported that the time it takes

to organise the average wedding equates to

a full-time job for six months.

Each bride and groom-to-be wants every

detail of their day to be perfect - from the colour

of the ribbon in the bridesmaid’s hair to the

colour of the fl owers in the bride’s bouquet.

It is the most important day of a couple’s

life, so everything has to be just so.

No matter if you’re planning a big white

wedding or a ‘no-nonsense’ ceremony, there

is still plenty to organise and at times it can

seem overwhelming.

Many couples choose to employ a

wedding planner to take away some of the

stress. They will be able to advise you on

the choices available, and point out ideas

you may not have considered.

Wedding planners may also have exclusive

access to some venues or services.

They will also take on the donkey work of

making your dream wedding a reality.

The fi rst, most important, step is to

set your budget. It is hard to make any

decisions without knowing how much you

have to spend.

Also decide early on if your wedding will

have a theme. It is normal to have a colour

theme for fl owers and bridesmaids, but

sometimes guests are requested to dress

in keeping with the theme. You could also

choose a historical theme, such as medieval

or 1920s, or a country theme.

Wedding planner Anna Jackson of A

Touch of Klass says: “My job is wonderful,

I have made some great friends as I really

bond with the bride, although grooms are

fast becoming more and more involved in

arrangements in recent times.

“The biggest hurdle is often the dress. In

the bridal wear world the dresses are always

bigger sizes - so if you’re a size 12 the dress

that fi ts you will probably be a size 16. It’s

sometimes diffi cult to explain to bride-to-be’s

that they are still the same size, the dresses

are just very, very small sizes. I’ve had to cut

out so many labels on dresses for the bride

once it’s been ordered. They don’t want

anyone to see the size.”

Even something as seemingly

straightforward as the invitations involves

a lot of decisions. Will you send out save

the date cards fi rst? Will you send a menu

or information sheet with the invitations?

Will you send a reply card or stamped

addressed envelope?

Also decide who will be invited to the

ceremony, the wedding breakfast, and the

evening event if you have one.

Ensure you include a deadline date for

people to reply – and the method of how

they should reply. It is not unreasonable to

ask for replies within a week.

Planning

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 5


A truly unique venue...

Whether you are looking for a romantic, intimate wedding or a large grand affair; we offer a choice of three elegant and stylish function suites each

with their own individual style,perfect for your special day!

A dedicated wedding co-ordinator will assist with all the planning, from the early stages right through to the big day, ensuring you can relax and enjoy every single moment.

All of our function suites are licensed for Civil Weddings and Civil Partnerships.

We welcome all Multi-Cultural weddings. 1090

620

Lakeside SuiteElegantly decorated suite

perfect for smaller, intimate weddings with stunning views overlooking the Marine Lake.

Waterfront SuiteThe cool contemporary

colours and stylish design of thissuite provide the perfect setting.

Floral Hall BallroomThe magnificent surroundings

of this beautiful suite will add a touch of glamour to your day!

The Promenade, Southport, PR9 ODZTel: 01704 514770www.southporttheatre.org.uk Email: [email protected]

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6 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


The venue is the single most important detail of the wedding day a couple will decide upon together.

These days choosing a wedding venue is no longer limited

to a church or registry offi ce.

It’s not unusual to hear of a ceremony taking place whilst the

bride and groom bungee jump - in fact it brings a much more

literal meaning to tying the knot.

Bizarre ideas aside, classic formal weddings are still the

most popular.

The perfect wedding location is the part of the day that will

go down in history. For years to come, guests will tell people

about the wedding venue - and they will hold nothing back.

What the food was like, how the tables were set, what the

service was like and most of all - was it was a disaster or a

dream venue.

Other than the traditional church, castles, stately homes and

country clubs are all romantic alternatives.

Hotels are also a very popular choice, because it is simple to

hold the reception in the same location.

Nowadays, British weather allowing, many couples are

choosing to tie the knot outdoors. The increasing number

of locations becoming registered to hold weddings has

broadened choice enormously.

Picturesque parks or botanical gardens make for an opulent

backdrop to the ceremony.

Your local town hall or registry offi ce is a popular choice for

people who have been married before, or those wanting a fuss-

free service.

Venue

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 7


With a selection of luxurious banqueting rooms, we cater for 20 to 250 guests. The hotel is fully licensed to hold Civil Ceremonies and with the beautiful Kings Gardens directly in front, you have a fantastic backdrop for photographs. We really are the ideal location for any wedding or celebration. Call now for a Brochure: Telephone 01704 533771Email [email protected] www.royalclifton.co.uk

Plan your 1091792

Hotel & Spa

SPECIAL OFFERSavailable for 2011

Call for Details

8 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Scarisbrick HotelLord Street · Southport · 01704 543000

• A Superb 3 course meal with coffee• A welcome drinks reception for all your guests

• A fabulous finger buffet for evening guests• Red carpet and champagne greeting for the bride and groom

• Glass of sparkling wine for all your guests for the toast and wine with your meal

• Chair covers for wedding breakfast• Resident DJ for evening entertainment

• One of our four poster honeymoon suite’s includesbreakfast for both the bride and groom

All this for under

£2,800**Based on 50 daytime

guests and 100evening guests

All Inclusive

Wedding Packages

The Scarisbrick Hotel in Southport is your ideal wedding venue and you will receive our renowned personal and friendly service. Everyone wants their wedding day to be perfect and our wedding receptions are the icing on the cake. We can offer you complete Wedding reception packages from small intimate weddings to lavish receptions, offering you excellent value for money. Alternatively, you can choose from our A La Carte Selection and put your own package together. We will happily cater for small & large numbers, from 10 to 160 guests. We will arrange the evening celebration for you and your guests, offering a superb choice of buffets and arranging one of our resident DJ’S to provide music suitable for all ages attending your wedding reception in Southport. All guests staying overnight can enjoy a 20% discount from our usualBed and Breakfast tariff.The Scarisbrick Hotel is registered to hold Civil Wedding Ceremonies on the premises

For further information or request a wedding brochure Tel: 01704 543000 orEmail [email protected]

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 9


1091

793

47 - 51 Merseyview, Waterloo, L22 6QA0151-924-0445 www.labarbacoa.co.uk Bar

Restaurant ~ Function Suite ~ Live Music Venue

Up to 150 persons daytime200 persons evening

Evening buffets selection

5 stars sefton food hygieneBest bar none winner for Sefton

Fully installed sound & lighting systems• Licensed for live bands • Fully air conditioned

Your Wedding DayFull wedding brochure WITH PRICES on our website

The Royal Hotel, Marine Terrace, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 5PR0151 928 2332. www.liverpool-royalhotel.co.uk

Our Historic Grade 2 Listed Building HasWelcomed Happy Couples Since 1815.

A great setting with the Marine Gardens to the front of the hotel, views to the welsh hills.

The Royal Hotel Offers:A Friendly & Quality Approach To All Couples

Catering For The More Intimate Weddings Up To80 Persons,

We Offer A Wide Range Of Food & Drink Options

So Call Us Today Or Have A Look AtOur Brochure Online

Everyone Deserves A ROYAL WEDDING

THEROYAL HOTEL

25 Ensuite Bedrooms

Lounge Bar& Restaurant

Conference,Meeting & FunctionFacilities Available

We Offer A Range Of Wedding PackagesFor Both Daytime & Evening Receptions

With Full Catering Provided In HouseBy Our Experienced Team Of Chefs

10 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Your wedding reception can be anything from a short ceremony to a party lasting many hours, but the important thing is that you enjoy it.

Make sure your venue has room for all of your guests, and

make sure there’s plenty of music to hand to ensure that fi rst

dance goes smoothly!

If your beloved has grown up in another country, why not

try to include some of their customs into the ceremony to give

your reception a truly international fl avour? Groom’s cakes,

often chocolate or liquor-fl avoured, are a popular reception

dish from the southern USA, while the custom of paying the

bride or groom a small amount of money to dance with them is

a tradition popular in countries such as Italy and Poland.

And don’t forget to toast your guests, particularly if one of

them introduced you and your partner to each other. Chances

are, they may even return a few good-natured jokes in the

speeches they make!

Also think about your outfi t for the reception. Will you stay in

your wedding clothes (it is nice for guests who did not attend

the ceremony to be able to see you in your fi nery) or change

into something more comfortable?

Your wedding day is one of the best of your life, and a great

reception should play a part of it.

Reception

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 11


1091

794

COMPLETE

YOUR SPECIAL

DAY WITH

PAUL ANTHONY’S

DISCO SERVICES

01704 563124

07879 081388

[email protected]

1091

754

1091156

12 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


PRINCE OF WALES HOTELLord Street, Southport • tel: 01704 536688 • fax: 01704 543932PRINCE OF WALES HOTELLord Street, Southport • tel: 01704 536688 • fax: 01704 543932

1090

651

The Prince of Wales has long been established as a premier venue for weddings in Southport.

Licensed to hold civil ceremonies for up to 200 guests we can cater for your whole wedding from start to finish.

The Prince is a beautifully restored hotel with a private lawned garden and arbour to the

front, ideal for photographs and drinks on arrival. Each function room has been lovingly restored to reflect their Victorian heritage. The intimate International & Cocktail Bar is ideal for weddings from 40 up to 70, the Windsor is comfortable from 40 to 110 guests, whilst our magnificent Bamber Ballroom is ideal from 80 to 200 daytime guests.

1090

651

SATURDAY PACKAGEAvailable April – September

Red carpet welcomeLawn available for photographs Welcome glass of Bucks Fizz for 50 guestsSet 3 course menu for 50 guestsLinen cloths on each tableEvening buffet for 100 guestsFunction suite room hirePrivate cash bar until 12.30amIncluding VAT

£1499 - 2011/12

£1499 WEDDING PACKAGE

SATURDAY PACKAGEAvailable October – March

SUNDAY – FRIDAY PACKAGEAvailable all year

Red carpet welcomeLawn available for photographsWelcome glass of Bucks Fizz for 50 guestsGlass of wine with Wedding breakfast for 50 guestsSparkling wine toast for 50 guestsSet 3 course menu for 50 guestsLinen cloths on each tableWhite linen napkins for each guestPrinting of menus, seating plan & placecardsCandelabra with choice of candles on each tableEvening buffet for 100 guestsFunction suite room hirePrivate cash bar until 12.30amIncluding VAT

£1499 - 2011/12Additional food or liquor items, along with room upgrades& any other aspects for your special day are available.Please ask your Wedding Co-ordinator.

PRINCE OF WALES HOTEL,Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1JS. Tel: 01704 536 688

DAYTIME WEDDING BREAKFAST MENU

Tomato SoupOr

Vegetable Soup✿✿✿

Traditional Roast Beef, Yorkshire Pudding,seasonal vegetables & potatoesOr

Traditional Roast Chicken, traditional trimmings,seasonal vegetables & potatoes✿✿✿

Apple Pie served with creamOr

Gateau served with cream

Additional guests charged£15.95 (2011 Rate only) Per Adult£17.95 (2012 Rate only) Per Adult.........................................................................................

EVENING BUFFET MENU

Please choose 2 from the following

Hot Pot, pickled red cabbage, crusty bread Chicken curry & riceChilli & riceVegetable Lasagne

Additional guests charged£5.95 (2011 Rate only) Per Adult£6.95 (2012 Rate only) Per Adult.........................................................................................

CIVIL CEREMONY CHARGES FROM £500

Room upgrade chargesThe Windsor Room @ £500

The Ballroom @ £750

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 13


The Cake Studio of

Celebration cakes baked to perfection, then

hand decorated by our cake artists...

1091888

For further details contact Emma at our studio

145 Roe Lane, Southport

Tel: 01704 227040Visit our website at

www.chlathambaker.co.uk14 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


A wedding cake is as much a part of the wedding as confetti, so choosing and making sure you have the right one is essential.

The cake is important and guests remember what it was like.

There are all types of wedding cakes, from large traditional

ones to just a single layered cake, there are lots of different

decisions to be made. Couples should decide how big their

cake is by how many guests they have coming.

The fl avour of the cake is also important. If you have chosen

to have a large layered cake then each tier could be different.

Flavours may include anything from vanilla, to chocolate fudge

to the traditional fruit mix with soft icing on top.

Sometimes couples decide to keep one of the tiers from the

wedding cake for a christening.

Icing is normally white or light cream colour. But in modern

weddings couples are deciding to have the same colour for the

wedding cake icing as the wedding theme. Sugar and fl our, or

rich cream cheese can be used as the icing recipe.

When decorating a cake you are free to use your

imagination. You can choose to have a cake linked with the

décor or theme of the wedding, or you might want to give it a

different look with unusual decorations to suit your individual

preference. Bakers design cakes with drapes, lace and

embroidery appliqué.

The wedding cake should refl ect the characteristics of the

couple.

Start planning your wedding cake months before the big day.

And make sure the cake is right for the season you are getting

married in, as an ice cream cake will melt in hot weather.

Cake

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 15


There are a number of choices to be made when planning food for a wedding reception and you must try and meet your guests’ varying tastes.

If you are having a wedding breakfast as

well as an evening reception, you will need

to plan separate menus.

The wedding breakfast is attended by an

invited number of guests who have been to

the church service.

The origin of the term ‘wedding breakfast’

is debated – some say it comes from the

tradition of the bride and groom fasting

before the ceremony, others believe it

comes from being the fi rst meal of married

life, as breakfast is the fi rst meal of the day.

If you are planning an evening do as well

– normally for a larger number of guests

who have not all attended the breakfast –

don’t forget that while you may still be full

from the earlier dinner, your new guests will

be hungry and will expect a good spread.

As always, fi nance comes into play

and fi rst of all people must decide when

they are to hold their reception, and must

choose whether it will be in the morning,

afternoon, or evening.

After you have decided on the time of the

reception you can start thinking about the

type of menu you want.

16 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


For those couples who want to tie the

knot at 12pm there is the lunchtime option.

This allows you to have drinks, then a sit

down meal with a set menu, with starters of

either soup, melon, or pate for example.

The main meal could be hot and include

chicken, or beef or lamb with vegetables.

You may also want a vegetarian option and

to provide salad.

For dessert, people can decide between

meringues, fruit salads and cheese and

biscuits.

There is also the option of a buffet where

a hot or cold table of food can be offered,

with meats, fi sh and salad or sandwiches.

A lunch menu allows for a certain degree

of fl exibility.

For those couples who want to have a

morning reception there is the choice of a

breakfast or brunch option.

Here you can give guests a selection of

morning foods such as pastries, pancakes,

bagels, fresh fruit and cheeses.

Morning receptions allow you an early

start to your celebrations and mean you

can leave for your honeymoon the same

day, but some guests who have had

to travel a long way may have diffi culty

getting there on time.

There is also the dinner reception

choice. As with the lunch reception there is

the choice of a sit down meal or buffet.

At an evening affair guests are more

likely to dance.

Finally if you don’t want a full meal as

part of your do, you could have a tea

reception.

This is an economical idea and guests

are still able to enjoy sandwiches and

cake.

Once you have decided on the time of

the reception and the menu, you must get

a quote for the cost of the food per head.

Venues may charge extra for cutlery and

table linen, so make sure you know what is

included in your price.

Food

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 17


1090526

•Small Weddings•Hen Parties

FREE Room HiRE for any functionSit doWn mEal oR buFFEt

Cinnamon can provide you with the perfect venue and our team will help you create the perfect party

13 - 17 Scarisbrick AvenueSouthport PR8 1NN

Telephone 01704 536926

1090526 cinnamon.indd 1 14/09/2010 5:22PM18 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Flowers can set the theme for your wedding and, if you get them right, they can provide the perfect backdrop to the day.

Flowers

You should fi rst examine how much you

are willing to spend on fl owers as they vary

from a few hundred pounds right up to

thousands of pounds.

The bride and bridesmaids can have

bouquets and the groom and ushers normally

wear buttonholes. Traditionally the couple’s

mothers wear corsages.

You then need to make the decision to

have fl owers in the church or the venue

where you are to be married. In the church

people often have pedestals of fl owers and

they also fi nish the pews off with fl owers.

Flowers are often also put in the wedding

car as a decoration.

At the reception you can also fi nd fl owers

as table decorations or on pedestals.

When fi nding a fl orist, people should

enquire at the venue where the reception is

held, or ask for a recommendation from a

friend.

You should then make a decision on the type

of fl owers you want. Popular wedding blooms

include lilies, roses, freesias and carnations.

The fl owers should not clash with your

dress, and they should fi t in with the venue

for the wedding and reception.

You may want to choose your favourite

fl ower and this idea would add your

personality to the day.

Brides may want to base their choice of

fl owers on the season the wedding is held

in, with tulips in the spring and roses in the

summer.

The quantity of fl owers is also important.

Some decide for a few which can provide

understated elegance, while others go for

busy arrangements with many fl owers.

Flowers have their own signifi cance and

traditions that vary across the globe and

through the ages.

The Victorians were fascinated by

the meanings of different blooms and

popularised the wedding rose, which

represents true love.

In Tudor England, brides carried marigolds

dipped in rosewater and ate them afterward,

since they were thought to be aphrodisiacs.

Ancient Greek brides often carried ivy as

a symbol of never-ending love and in Indian

tradition both the bride and groom wear a

fl oral headpiece.

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 19


Fantasyw e d d i n g s

Telephone: 01704 541 525Mobile: 07547819979eMail: [email protected]

ShowrooM addreSS: 4a bold Street, Southport pr9 0dd

opening TiMeS:Mon to Fri 10:30am - 5pm Sat 11.00 - 4pm

Please make an appointment to avoid disappointment. Out of hours bookings available on request.

Fantasy weddings is a unique business, ideally situated within the bridal Quarter of bold Street, next door to Cake Creations and opposite lucy briars bridal wear...

at Fantasy weddings we have many years experience of dressing venues for weddings and Special occasions. we provide hire Cover hire in Southport and surrounding areas. our Chair Covers and Table Cloths are all made in the UK from hotel quality linen and we have sizes to fit most types of chairs and tables. our organza and satin sashes, swags and table runners are available in a vast array of colours.

also available is Candelabra hire, Mirror hire and vase hire, all in a wide range of sizes and styles. These can be hired and decorated by yourself or our qualified florists can design something special of you.

we also have a wide range of beautiful hand made wedding stationary, and new for 2010 we also now stock a range of wedding guest books, albums and bridesmaid & best man gifts

browse through our website for more ideas, or call in to the showroom for more information.

1091

710

20 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


This may seem like the easy part, but there are many factors to consider when arranging your reception seating plan.

You will need to wait fi rst until you have

all the replies as to which guests will be

attending.

Chase up people who have not replied by

your deadline with a phone call.

While it is not strictly necessary to assign

seats to guests, it is normally expected and

helps the day run more smoothly. It also

avoids families being split up or people being

seated along with others they may not know.

A seating chart is generally posted on

a board or table near the entrance to the

reception, or escort cards can be printed

and given to each guest with their name and

table and seat number. The advantage of

these is they can be changed up to the last

minute, whereas a seating chart will need to

be printed in advance.

It is a nice idea to give ‘names’ to your

tables instead of numbers. These can have

a theme, for example gemstones or cartoon

characters.

Generally it is best to sit families or work

colleagues together, but avoid having a table

of ‘leftovers’ who don’t know anyone else – it

is best to distribute these guests evenly.

Some couples like to have a male-female-

male-female seating arrangement for variety,

but this is not always practical.

The wedding party sit at the top table,

which generally takes the form of a long table

with seats along one side. Sometimes it is on

a raised platform.

Traditionally the groom sits to the right of

the bride, and places alternate male-female.

Partners of the best man and chief

bridesmaid sit at other tables.

A typical line-up could be chief bridesmaid,

groom’s father, bride’s mother, groom, bride,

bride’s father, groom’s mother, best man.

If it is a second marriage, children from

previous relationships may also sit at the top

table.

If the parents of the bride or groom have

divorced and remarried, it probably isn’t a

good idea to put them and their new partners

together on the top table.

One solution is to invite some family of

the step-parent and put them together on a

separate table near the top table.

It is also becoming more fashionable for

the bride and groom to sit at their own table,

known as the sweetheart table. This avoids

anyone feeling ‘left out’ from the top table.

Seating Plan

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 21


Traditionally the husband-to-be’s only jobs include the marriage proposal, selecting his best man and paying for the honeymoon - but things have changed and men are becoming more hands-on in planning their big day.

It used to the bride’s mother who would

go along with her to view fl owers, look at

venues, pick out stationery and organise

the reception seating plan.

But tradition has faded somewhat over

the decades, and the husband-to-be is

becoming much more involved with the

organisation of the big day.

With many couples now paying for

weddings themselves rather than turning

to their parents, and many setting up home

together before the wedding, it’s easy

to see why the men are so much more

involved.

Wedding planner Anna Jackson says:

“It’s amazing how many grooms come to all

the meetings with the bride now - we even

fi nd the men are grooming themselves

more.

“I have them booked in to get their hair

and nails done, teeth whitening, diet club -

you name it.”

22 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Part owner of Emersons Menswear in

Southport, Steve Emerson says: “Lots of

men are happy to wear what they are told

to wear and go with the fl ow - but more

grooms than ever are insisting on what they

like and what they don’t.

“Highland wear has been very popular

this year - but the amount of times men

have walked into the shop saying ‘I’m not

wearing a skirt’ - I’ve explained the theory

behind a kilt so often, then most people try

it on and look and feel a million dollars.”

Steve agrees that men are becoming

much more involved and do tend to

pamper themselves more.

“We get so many suits back with make-

up or fake tan on the collar - but why

shouldn’t the groom make sure he looks

and feels his best? Why should all the

emphasis be on how the bride looks? It’s

really great to see that men are making

such an effort with their appearance.”

The most popular suits in the shop are

the three-quarter length jackets. “They are

a kind of compromise between tails and a

regular dinner suit.

“Tails are really smart, but lots of men

just don’t feel comfortable wearing them,

so the three-quarter length suit is great. It

will carry on any size, shape or age - from

children to granddads.”

As with the bride, grooms should pick

an outfi t to fl atter their fi gure and make

sure they feel comfortable on the day. For

example, men with larger waistlines should

avoid drawing attention to them with a

cummerbund and opt for a more slimming

vest.

Shorter men should avoid double-

breasted suits and long jackets, as these

will not be fl attering.

So there you have it gents - groom

yourselves for your wedding day - take

some spotlight off the dress.

Groom

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 23


Southport Dress AgencyFabulous selection of mother of the bride and wedding guest outfits at amazing prices!

We also stock shoes, bags, hats, and fascinators - new stock arriving every day!

Jacques Vert, Ronald Joyce,Condici, Medici, Coastand many more!

82 Bispham Road, Southport Telephone: 01704 214128Monday: Closed • Tuesday-Friday: 10.00am-4.30pm Saturday: 10.00am-5.00pm

1090815

1091

681

1091

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Email: [email protected]

EASY FREE PARKING

Menswear Hire ServiceFOR WEDDING &EVENING WEAR

PERSONAL ADVICE& ATTENTION

Special Rates ForSCHOOL PROMS

Open Monday - Saturday9.00am - 5.30pm

& SONEmail: [email protected]

& SON

132 Church Rd(opp The Grapes),

Freshfi eld, Formby L37 3NH. Tel: 01704 873983

SUIT HIRE

• Nationwide measuring service• Wide range to choose from

• Competitive prices

1091312

Grooms Room. The Mews 15a Off Liverpool RdBirkdale PR8 4AS. Tel: 01704 553951

24 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


The tradition of having a best man has somewhat unpleasant roots – a throw-back to ancient European times when a groom would kidnap his potential bride and would need to choose the ‘best man’ to help him with the task.

Today, choosing a best man is a tactful process. It is a great

honour to bestow on someone, normally a close friend of the

groom, but also comes with great responsibility.

The person chosen must be trustworthy and also get on well

with the bride.

He will stand to the right of the groom during the ceremony

and carry the rings until they are needed. But probably the

greatest pressure is the best man’s speech at the reception,

which is traditionally witty and jocular, and the chosen person

must be confi dent enough to carry this off.

A wealth of books and websites are available to give tips

on best man speeches, but the best are always original and

heartfelt.

The best man also acts as chief usher and will be

responsible for helping the groom keep appointments and

organising the wedding outfi ts (although the bride has the fi nal

say on matters such as the colour of waistcoats).

He will organise the stag party and distribute buttonholes

and orders of service.

The best man must be willing to give a lot of his own time, be

well organised and good at remembering names and faces.

Best Man

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 25


For many brides-to-be the most important and stressful element of the big day is the wedding dress.

From an elegant fi gure-hugging gown

to a full-on meringue - the possibilities are

endless, and, of course, are all a matter of

taste.

A bride needs the perfect gown that

will ensure she looks her best, refl ect her

personality and will still look stunning when

looking back on wedding photos in years

to come.

Many women spend years searching for

their wedding dress, but as soon as they

see it they will know it is ‘the one’. Bridal

shops, wedding fayres and magazines are

a great starting point.

Dawn Keijzer, director of The Bridal

Gallery Group Limited, Tarleton, says

brides-to-be should keep an open mind

when searching for the ideal dress.

“It’s great to have some direction, but

trying on a wedding dress is an experience

unlike any other and it often turns out that

the initial thoughts do not replicate the gown

that the bride falls in love with,” she says.

“Bring maybe one or two trusted family

members or friends with you, but not

too many as often opinions can confl ict

and cause confusion! Also don’t try on

too many gowns in one go as it can be

overwhelming.”

Bridal shop assistants are used to the

fi tting process and can give un-biased

advice on what silhouettes and colours will

suit you.

As with any dress, certain styles will

enhance particular body shapes. For

example, an A-line dress can hide broad

hips and a ‘mermaid’ shape creates height

for petite brides.

And if you’re struggling to fi nd your ideal

dress, there is always the option to have

your own bespoke style created – if you

can afford it.

Celebrity weddings can often infl uence

popular choices (perhaps with the

exception of Jordan’s pink loo-roll-cover

creation), but classic looks never go out of

fashion.

“Strapless gowns have defi nitely been

the style of choice over recent years,

however there has now been a slight shift

towards gowns with straps as brides want

to be different to other family members or

26 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


friends who have all recently been married

in strapless gowns,” Dawn says.

“Romance is defi nitely back as veils are

also extremely popular at the moment,

with the train length being most popular

and many girls are also liking the addition

of pearls along with crystals either on their

gown, veil or tiara.”

Coloured gowns have increased in

popularity recently as attitudes towards

the traditional marriage ceremony become

more relaxed.

Red, gold and black gowns do not

even raise an eyebrow these days, but

the classic white or ivory dress still reigns

supreme.

Dawn recently produced dresses for

a set of seven bridesmaids who had the

same style dress in each of the colours of

the rainbow.

“The end result was striking,” she says.

The cost of a gown should not be off-

putting, because a beautiful dress can be

found to suit most budgets.

There is also more of a trend these

days to wear vintage dresses or family

heirlooms. It is not uncommon for brides to

fi nd their dream dress in a charity shop.

A mother’s or grandmother’s wedding

dress can be altered or embellished to

suit a modern day bride. With a good eye

and some fl are a bride can create her own

stunning creation that is truly unique.

Also keep in mind bridal lingerie and

ensure that this will suit the dress. For

example, a lacy bra may appear lumpy

under a sheer silk dress.

A beautiful, well suited dress will ensure

you exude confi dence on your wedding

day and all the stress of fi nding it will be

worth it to see your husband-to-be’s jaw

hit the fl oor.

The Dress

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 27


BR Brides Room of Birkdale

With over 11 years of experience, we deliver thevery highest of standards in a professional, friendly

and unpressurised atmosphere.

No matter what your taste on budget, we have theperfect gown for you. Gowns from £300 to £4500.

Designers include Jenny Packham, Mori Lee,Augusta Jones, Nicola Anne, Phil Collins, Venus,

Enzoani by Benjamin Roberts etc. Extensive rangeof bridesmaid dresses and accessories.

15 Liverpool Road, Birkdale, Southport, PR8 4AR

www.bridesroomofbirkdale.co.uk

1091

313

01704 550991

BRR

BR

B Brides Room

very highest of standards

No matter what your taste on budget, we have theperfect gown for you. Gowns from £300 to £4500.

Augusta Jones, Nicola Anne, Phil Collins, Venus, Enzoani by Benjamin Roberts etc. Extensive range

1091

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Captivating Brides& SPECIAL OCCASIONS

1091

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71 Crosby Road North Liverpool L22 4QDTelephone: 0151 949 1913

Open: 10.30am - 5pm Tues - Satwww.captivatingbrides.co.uk

Bridal and bridesmaid gowns fromtop international and local designers.

Also stocking Communion & Christening Wear, Prom Dresses, Menswear Hire,

Special Occasion Outfits & Accessories.

FREEBRIDESMAID

DRESSWITH

BRIDAL GOWNOVER £500

the bridal loungeStunning Collection of Bridal Gowns, Bridesmaids Dresses

and Evening WearFormal Suit HireExtensive rangeof Accessories- Tiaras- Veils- Jewellery- ShoesBespoke Design Service to suit individual needsFriendly and personal serviceassured. Out of hours appointments available

NEwly REFuRBiSHED SHowRoomopening Times - Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm

Closed on monday’s0151 922 4444

www.thebridallounge.co.uk145 Linacre Road, Liverpool, L21 8JP 10

9197

5

28 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Originally bridesmaids were used in the wedding ceremony as a ‘decoy’, to confuse evil spirits intent on destroying the bride’s happiness. Often they were servants of the couple.

Modern bridesmaids are seen as an integral part of the

ceremony and help her in a similar way to the best man helping

the groom.

Bridesmaids can be of any age. Many couples like to

choose young family members to make them feel involved in

the day. An older bridesmaid who is married is known as a

matron of honour.

It is acceptable to have any number of bridesmaids, although

the more chosen, the more cost is involved. Bridesmaids’

dresses are traditionally paid for by the groom, but today these

customs are often ignored for practical reasons.

The bride has the fi nal say on what the bridesmaids wear.

One of their duties is to carry the bride’s train if it is long, but

they also help with practical issues and traditionally plan the

hen party.

Superstition says that if a bridesmaid trips down the aisle,

she will never be a bride herself.

Page boys and fl ower girls can also be incorporated into the

ceremony. Flower girls walk in front of the bride, scattering

fl ower petals, while page boys may help carry the train or carry

the rings to the altar on a cushion.

Bridesmaids

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 29


The bride’s parents traditionally were responsible for paying for the majority of wedding expenses, but this is no longer closely observed.

Other customs that they are expected to perform include

hosting the engagement party, assisting the bride in her duties,

witnessing the signing of the register and acting as host and

hostess at the reception as well as greeting them at their arrival.

The bride’s father travels to the wedding with his daughter

and escorts her down the aisle before ‘giving her away’.

He makes the fi rst speech at the reception, toasts the bride

and groom and is traditionally the last person to leave the

reception.

The bride’s mother should help her daughter and respect her

wishes at every stage, even if they do not match her own.

The groom’s parents have no traditional roles to fulfi l, but

nowadays they often make a fi nancial contribution to the

wedding and it is good practice for them to be consulted

throughout the wedding plans.

Parents

30 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


OPENING HOURS

Mon 10–4 Tue 9–5 Wed 9–5 Thu 9–8 Fri 9–7 Sat 9–5 Sun CLOSED

1091962

Please remember we are now open on Mondays for hair & beauty

Find us on

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MYWEDDINGPLANNER 31


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32 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Hair and make-up is a very important aspect of the wedding day. Every bride wants to look stunning on her big day, but should remember it’s not just about fi nding the perfect dress.

There are so many options to choose from when deciding

on the right wedding hairstyle; be it pinned up or left down,

curly or straight, so it’s a good idea to look for inspiration in

magazines and on the internet beforehand.

The style must complement your outfi t, refl ect your

personality and fi t in with how you will wear your chosen veil

or tiara.

Jewels, beads or fl owers can also be added to French

pleats or curls for a unique look or a touch of sparkle.

Once you’ve decided on your ideal style, don’t wait until the

wedding and hope for the best. Always have a trial run well in

advance to make sure it will work out as planned.

Make-up must also complement the rest of your look.

To help achieve a fl awless complexion, take care of your

skin ahead of the big day.

Try to take time out and relax during the build-up.

Pre-wedding nerves and stress over the preparations can lead

to the appearance of pimples.

As with hair, it is advisable to have a make-up trial in

advance. Trials work best in daylight to fi nd the perfect tones

and colours to suit your complexion and wedding theme.

On the day, leave the make-up until your hairstyle is

complete, so that your face looks as fresh as possible when

you walk down the aisle.

Hair & Make-up

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 33


A Wonderful Day and Evening Awaits you at

G O L F A N D C O U N T R Y C L U B

Endeavouring to make your special day just that and more, Hurlston

Hall provides an idyllic setting for your wedding occasion. We hold a full civil license, allowing us to accommodate not only your wedding breakfast and evening celebrations but the all important ceremony itself. Set amongst a backdrop of picturesque rolling countryside, the atmosphere is perfectly balanced. A stunning location and excellent service combine to make your day memorable and stress free. Our team of expert wedding planners will capably handle your every request and are on hand to advise you at any

stage of the planning process. From the menu to room dressing, flowers to transport, our team and well developed network of suppliers can deliver to your exact requirements. For more information view our website www.hurlstonhall.co.uk, or telephone 01704 842825 to speak to one of our wedding advisors.

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34 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Rings & JewelleryThe band symbolises everlasting love and is traditionally

worn on the third fi nger of the left hand.

Ancient Egyptians believed that this fi nger contained the

“vena amoris”, the vein of love, that runs directly to the heart.

Many couples choose a wedding set of matching

engagement ring, wedding band and eternity ring, but it

is more common, with people choosing to have longer

engagements, to buy separate rings.

Start the search by deciding what will go well with the

engagement ring.

The gold colours should match and the carat weights

should be the same, otherwise a purer gold ring would wear

down a less pure one worn next to it.

Simple gold bands are the classic choice, but many

variations on this style are now available.

White gold has soared in popularity over recent years

and is now the colour of choice for many younger couples

because of its versatility when wearing other colours.

Diamond studded bands are becoming popular, but ensure

they do not clash or detract from the engagement ring.

Patterned and Celtic style bands are also widely available.

Dual-coloured bands are also a fashionable choice, with a

smaller band of white gold on a yellow base being a popular

current style.

Couples often decide to have a personal message, or

initials, engraved on the inside of their wedding band. This

gives a personal and romantic individual twist, but if you

choose this option it is better to go for a wider wedding band.

For the big day itself, decide whether to buy or hire bridal

jewellery.

To make a real statement without breaking the bank, hire

some stunning diamond earrings and a necklace.

But many brides like to keep their wedding jewellery, and

often a simple, elegant solitaire diamond necklace is all that is

needed to set off the beautiful dress.

If the bride’s hair is worn up, some beautiful earrings will

complement the style well.

Choose the hairstyle well in advance so you can decide

what hair jewellery, such as tiaras or elegant slides, will be

needed.

Choosing the right wedding ring is very important as you will be wearing it every day for the rest of your married life.

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 35


Dominic, the DVD blew us away. We are so glad we decided to have a video. I couldn’t imagine not being able to re-live the day. You captured the atmosphere perfectly. Thank you so much for all your help.

Claire & Joel, July 2010

Your Wedding Video isn’t just for one day, it’s for life…

We take one special day and create one lasting memory.www.impressionsvideography.co.uk [email protected] 01704 873847

With over 25 years experience we have surpassed the expectation’s of Brides and Grooms and created a colourful and lasting memory to be treasured forever.

Can you afford not to have Impressions film & produce a lasting memory of the greatest day of your life?

Two camera coverage quietly captured produced with style and flair. Packages to suit all budgets with reduced rates for winter weddings. Call Dominic for a friendly no obligation consultation and to arrange a viewing of our work.

1090

849

1091956

36 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Photography

Capturing the day on camera is vital to any wedding. The pictures will keep the memories alive and will stay with you forever.

Professional photographers bring exceptional organisation

skills to your big day, together with that all-important “eye” for

detail - but just how much goes into taking wedding pictures?

Traditionally, wedding photography was frowned on by

professional photographers, but in recent years it’s become

more of a respected profession. Wedding photography is now

up there with high fashion photography.

There’s so much more room for creativity that a professional

will bring with him in his bag of tricks. They’ll picture the bride

and groom naturally enjoying themselves, making really special

images to grace your album.

Using their imagination and utilising different locations, your

photographs are going to uniquely record your day, to provide

you with a timeless source of great pleasure.

For inexperienced photographers it can be a diffi cult job

keeping people relaxed in front of a camera but professionals

consider it the best job in the world.

The current fashion is for artistic shots, but you need to

ensure that your chosen photographer is both comfortable and

competent taking traditional shots too – such as close-ups of

the bride and groom holding hands, or a motion shot of confetti

raining down on the newlyweds.

You also need to consider whether to have your wedding

memorialised on video. A DVD is a fantastic way of reliving your

wedding day in years to come and it is an ideal gift for friends

and family to treasure or even pass on to your children. What

better way to describe your big day to future generations than

letting them watch it for themselves?

It’s best to get a professional in for the job, because an

amateurish wedding video can look really dated, very quickly.

With expert editing and maybe a soundtrack added, you can

relive your wedding whenever you like without worrying about

any ‘You’ve Been Framed’ style blunders.

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 37


Elegant CarriagesHorse Drawn Carriages for all occasions

ESTABLISHED OVER 30 YEARSAt Elegant Carriages we provide superior carriages with matching pairs of horses for

weddings and special occasions including birthdays, anniversaries, school proms,commercial promotions, village fetes etc...

With over 30 years experience we provide white grey horses (the traditional colour for weddings) which are all very experienced and can work in all conditions. All our open carriages have hoods and aprons to ensure all the occupants are kept dry in case of inclement weather. Elegant Carriages is a fully insured working carriage company.

197 Hesketh Lane, Tarleton, Preston, Lancashire PR4 6AT.TEL: 01772 812 304 www.elegant-carriages.co.uk

Our Wedding Carriages

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THE VICTORIABuilt in London in 1890, this is a fi ne open carriage (with hood and apron for bad weather) seating up to four people. This carriage is usually drawn by a pair of high-stepping horses.

THE GLASS LANDAUThis is our most exclusive carriage. The Glass Landau canseat up to six people & can be OPEN or FULLY CLOSED in bad weather.

THE LARGE GLASS LANDAUThis carriage is usually drawn by a four-in-hand team of white horses,with two or three attendants to make the most impressivewedding transport.

THE POLISH VICTORIAThis carriage is a modern reproduction and is fi nished to a very high standard. This is a very popular carriage with our brides

ALL OUR CARRIAGES ARE FINISHED IN ‘MIDNIGHT BLUE’ COACH PAINT WITH BLACK LEATHER UPHOLSTERY AND HOODS

38 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


1090654

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 39


Birkdale Classics

Southport (01704) 567554www.birkdaleclassics.co.uk

Special occasion car hire

Relax. Look no further.

We are the only company who have these rare and exclusive cars, all in superb condition and with our legendary dedication to detail that comes from many years of experience.

From traditional to outrageous, the choice is yours!

Seven seater limousines to match all cars,

These cars get booked early, so phone or Email now to book for your special day.

FREE COLOUR BROCHURE

1090522

40 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


When you’re travelling to your wedding, you want to not only get to the church on time, but in style too.

Transport

There’s a wealth of ways of getting to your

special day and ensuring both you and your

guests arrive unruffl ed and ready for the big

event. It’s easy to overlook your choice of

carriage in the whirlwind rush to the wedding

itself, but it’s well worth taking a look at just

what’s on offer.

Wedding car fi rms across Sefton and West

Lancashire are ready to help you get that

special journey arranged, and have an array

of some of the most beautiful and luxurious

machines on hand to make the trip to the

church an enjoyable and comfortable one.

Anything from the latest Rolls-Royces,

Daimlers, Mercedes and Bentleys are

available to make your day extra special, but

if you’re feeling adventurous, why not go for

a classic car to give your ceremony some

added style?

The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow and Silver

Cloud models are still wedding favourites

today but you could also go for a Stateside

feel with a Cadillac, a period feel with a

vintage or veteran car or feel like a head of

state with a Daimler limousine. There’s no

shortage of stylish wheels to whisk you to

your wedding!

Happy couples could even drop four

wheels altogether in favour of four legs.

Horse and carriages were the staple transport

of wedding ceremonies for centuries before

the car was invented, and it still makes a

charming way to get to the venue.

A number of companies based in the

region are more than willing to help you

arrange a horse-drawn carriage trip, which

will help give the wedding ceremony a

traditional feel.

For real high fl yers there’s always the

option of arranging a high-adrenaline way of

getting to the ceremony; if it’s suitable for the

venue, why not drop in by helicopter, or drift

up gently by boat? These are undoubtedly

expensive options, but if you’re looking to

make a memorable entrance on the big day

they are defi nitely worth considering.

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 41


Classic Wedding Cars

For furtherinformationTelephone:

01772 81640701704 892320

Mobile:07803 60187766 Moss Lane,Hesketh Bank,

PR4 6AB

A Family Run Business with over 20 years experience providing classic vintage wedding

cars for your special day.

www.classicweddingcars.org

1091738 Visit us at

1090874

After your Special Day is over, what will you have to help you recall those precious hours? Your ring, your dress and some photos.

And what else will you spend which will provide a lasting memory? The cars, the cake, the bar bill?

The ONLY way of fully preserving your wedding memories … to include the vows, the movement and the music … is by a Wedding Film expertly captured, edited and recorded to DVD by FormbySoft Films.

FormbySoft Films will provide exactly the service tailored to YOUR needs at prices from £400 to £900.

Does that sound like good value to you?

How much would you have loved to see your Grandmother’s wedding on film?

Now imagine showing your Wedding Film to your children and to your grandchildren.

The question really is – can you afford not to book FormbySoft Films to produce your Wedding Day Film?

It’s once in a lifetime and you can’t change your mind and re-run your wedding, so be sure to phone or visit our website to reserve your date now.

ChurchtownChurchtown Wedding Car HireWe are a family run business

founded in 1993 with an excellent reputation and renowned for our friendly and helpful approach.We are located in Churchtown, three miles from Southport town centre, therefore making us very

convenient for Liverpool through to Preston and surrounding areas. Our fleet of cars, including our prize winning convertibles and our uniformed chauffeurs will do all they can to make your special day run smoothly and add that touch of class.

Churchtown Wedding Cars, 146 Preston Road, Southport PR9 8PP

Tel: 01704 226362www.churchtowncars.co.uk

Our Cars

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42 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


It’s now tradition for guests to shower the bride and groom with gifts on their wedding day, but it can be tricky choosing presents for the happy couple.

Gifts

Don’t be embarrassed about setting up a

gift list and asking for things you need. You

don’t want to end up with 10 kettles and fi ve

toasters, and guests will probably appreciate a

point in the right direction.

Using a gift list is only considered to be

bad taste if it is forced onto guests, and is not

thought to be cheeky or presumptuous.

You can either compile a list yourself,

including the colour, model and

manufacturer’s name for the items you want,

or use the wedding list services on offer at

various shops and websites.

It is tradition that the host, usually the bride’s

mother, takes charge of circulating the list.

On the big day, the bride and groom are

also expected to give presents to their guests.

Known as ‘favours’, the gifts can double-up

as a token of thanks and an attractive table

decoration.

They may be as simple as small boxes

fi lled with sweets or sugared almonds and

goody bags for children, to more unusual

or personalised gifts like alcohol miniatures,

small accessories or lottery tickets.

Special gifts are also given to the

bridesmaids, ushers and best man by way of

thanks for their hard work.

A keepsake to remind them of the day will

often make a nice gift.

Traditionally, the gifts for the best man and

the maid of honour will be similar but slightly

more expensive than those given to the

bridesmaids and ushers.

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 43


CALL FREE 0800 655 6552

1091

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Christmas

Your guide to making the fi nest festive season for your familyincluding details of useful local companies and services

PLANNERChristmas

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Garden

Your guide to local services for your outdoor living spaceincluding a special month-by-month guide of things to do

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44 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Honeymoon

When it comes to working out your honeymoon the world is your oyster as the choice of locations for your romantic break is practically endless.

Whether you and your beloved are hoping to head for the

sun, experience the glamour of the globe’s most beautiful

cities, or escape to a country retreat to enjoy your break in a

peaceful and secluded place, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

There’s a romantic break on offer from every corner of the

globe, offering almost every fl avour of exciting getaway for

you and your partner. You could sip cocktails and see the

sunset from any number of perfect island beaches, including

ones in the Caribbean, the Seychelles, or in the warm and

secluded seas in the Far East, made famous by Leonardo

DiCaprio in The Beach.

Closer to home are the charms of Europe’s beautiful cities,

which have long provided happy couples with the honeymoon

of their dreams. Paris and Venice remain popular choices,

but why not try Rome, Prague, or Barcelona? Moscow is

also becoming a honeymoon favourite for more adventurous

couples.

You don’t even need to stray beyond the British Isles to

enjoy a truly romantic time away, with country breaks and

city stops alike on offer. The sights and sounds of London,

Edinburgh and Dublin are an exciting stop for any couple,

while a secluded break in the Lake District, Scottish Highlands

or North Wales offer a chance to get away from it all.

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 45


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A relatively new concept, wedding fayres are a fantastic way to have a look around possible venues but also to look at other providers while you are there.

Anyone who produces

anything for weddings can

book a table and show their

wares to prospective brides

and grooms.

On some occasions

there is even a fashion

show showcasing the latest

wedding dresses, morning

wear and mother of the

bride fashions.

Cake makers, stationers,

fl orists, photographers,

beauticians and

hairdressers will all be there

to talk to you and help you

make decisions on the main

aspects of your wedding.

You can go to as many as

you like and going to fayres

held in several different

venues will give you the

chance to look at different

locations and speak to a

number of different people.

Wedding Fayres

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 47


Hens & Stags

Thirty years ago stag and hen do’s consisted of a few drinks down the local pub the night before the wedding.

Now, they can range from a night out to a week away in

some far fl ung exotic location. It is not unusual for the stag,

along with his close friends and perhaps family to jump on a

plane and enjoy a weekend away in the sun. The hen may do

exactly the same with her friends in a similar location.

Traditionally the Best Man will take responsibility for the

stag do, he will decide what is going to happen and arrange it

from start to fi nish.

The Maid of Honour or Chief Bridesmaid does the same for

the bride. This rule has been slightly relaxed in recent years

with the bride and groom, possibly wisely so, wanting a say in

the plans.

Some couples do still opt to have a less extravagant hen

and stag do and will keep it to a night out in their local area.

Although tradition it is considered less than sensible to have it

the night before the wedding these days.

Getting through a twelve-hour day with a hangover is not

nice, and defi nitely not enjoyable.

And besides, it takes longer than a few hours for eyebrows

to grow back and permanent marker to wear off …

48 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


Something old refers to an item that represents a link with the

bride’s ‘old’ life. Often this will be a piece of family jewellery or a

dress worn by a mother or grandmother.

Something new is said to bring good luck, happiness and

success. This could be the wedding dress, if bought new.

Something borrowed, normally something that has been

worn by another bride at a happy wedding, ensures good luck,

this could be a trinket, hankie, or item of clothing.

The something blue dates from ancient Israel, where the

bride wore a blue ribbon to symbolise fi delity. Nowadays a bride

will often wear a blue-trimmed garter.

There are a wealth of old wives’ tales and superstitions

associated with weddings. It used to be considered unlucky for

a woman to marry a man whose surname began with the same

letter as hers, as set out in the rhyme: “To change the name and

not the letter, is to change for the worst and not the better.”

It is thought unlucky for the groom to see the bride in her

wedding dress before the ceremony and it is also unlucky for

the bride to make her own wedding dress.

The bride should not wear her entire outfi t before the wedding

day. Some brides leave a fi nal stitch on the dress undone until it

is time to leave for the ceremony so as not to jinx the wedding.

When the bride is ready to leave for the wedding, a fi nal look

in the mirror is said to bring good luck. However returning to the

mirror once the journey has begun, will result in bad luck.

Seeing a chimney sweep on the way to a wedding is thought

to bring good luck and many couples still hire one to attend

marriage ceremonies. Other good luck omens when seen on

the way to a wedding include lambs, toads, spiders, black cats

and rainbows.

Several wedding traditions involve shoes. The best known,

which is still carried out today, is to tie shoes to the back of the

married couple’s car. This has evolved from a Tudor custom

where guests would throw shoes at the newlywed couple. It was

considered lucky if they or their carriage were hit.

Another lesser-known tradition is for the father of the bride

to give the groom a pair of the bride’s shoes to symbolise the

passing of responsibility for the daughter to her new husband.

A variation of the custom is for the groom to tap the bride on the

forehead with one of the shoes to assert his dominance.

TraditionThe tradition of the bride wearing “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue” dates from Victorian times.

The custom of the bride throwing her bouquet over her shoulder originally involved her throwing one ofher shoes.

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 49


Appoint Bridesmaids and Best Man

Commence a wedding planning diary

Book church or wedding venue

Book and organise reception

Arrange caterers if necessary

Make out guest list

Order printed wedding invitations and other stationery

Buy rings

Compile gift list

Plan and select bride’s gown

Plan and choose bridesmaids’ clothes

Choose a going-away outfi t

Choose/hire suit for groom

Choose bride’s mother’s outfi t

Choose groom’s mother’s outfi t

Order fl owers for reception and ceremony

Order fl owers for bride and bridesmaids

Order corsages for the two mothers

Order buttonholes for groom,

Best Man, ushers and guests

Book photographer and/or video

Organise the cake

Arrange transport for bride to the ceremony

(to the reception is the groom’s responsibility)

Arrange transport for main wedding party

and other guests

Record replies to wedding invitations

Update gift list as gifts are received

The honeymoon booking (groom again)

Checklist

50 MYWEDDINGPLANNER


We at Tree Tops would like to make it a very special day for you. Did you know that we are the only country house hotel in the area and that we have five acres of beautiful grounds? A photographers

paradise. And, of course, while those lovely photographs are being taken, your guests can mingle on the lawns with their pre-drinks.

There are various options available at Tree Tops for you to choose from.

We are licensed for civil weddings and civil partnership ceremonies. These take place in our beautifully appointed conservatory. We can also arrange blessings and wedding parties for those couples who

have had a wedding abroad. A further option then, according to numbers, is whether you wish to hold your wedding breakfast in our delightful restaurant or our renowned marquee suite. The decor in the restaurant is such that you can introduce your own colour scheme in the cloths, flowers etc. and the

restaurant will accommodate up to 75. Our heated (for all those winter weddings) marquee will hold up to 250 and, as well as choosing your own colour, cloths, flowers etc., we can arrange to even change

the colour of the wall and ceiling! And also if necessary extend it to hold even more guests.

Whichever is your choice, you can be confident that our professional and caring staff will be working together to make your day a day to remember.

Tree TOps COUNTrY HOUse HOTeL & resTAUrANTsOUTHpOrT OLD rOAD, FOrmbY · 01704 572430

www.treetopsformby.co.uk · email: [email protected]

1091782

Tree TopsCountry House Restaurant & Hotel

MYWEDDINGPLANNER 51


The Grand Marquee Knowsley Safari Park

1090622


My Wedding Planner 2011

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Transcript of My Wedding Planner 2011