Practical Tips to Get Fit for Your Big Day

 
 

“Oh My God, I’m Getting Married!”

 

Keeping fit for your wedding day
One phrase that makes any bride-to-be both excited and incredibly nervous. between choosing a venue, deciding on the theme, trying on gowns and sampling menus, that little nagging voice in your head will at some point come out to play and reminds you that it may be a good idea to get fit or even lose some inches for the wedding.
Sound familiar? If you are looking for simple (and proven) tips to get fitter for your wedding, you are in luck! Here at SB Fitness we have reviewed and annotated the following list of practical tips from WeLoveHoneymoons.com to give you some easy to use suggestions to look great for your Big Day this year.

1. Aim for the long term

Yes, it is tempting to look for a quick fix but unfortunately that’s not the way to go. Simply put there are no gimmicks and easy solutions. What you need to do is create the basis for a healthy lifestyle, which includes proper nutrition and exercise. Having a wedding date set is a very good motivator, but remember you are aiming to stay fit for your honeymoon on the beach and for every anniversary you’ll be celebrating with your husband moving forward.

2. Set realistic goals

Realistically the average weight loss – as a result of a healthy and sustainable lifestyle – is about 1lb (0.5kg) per week. Once you start changing your diet and adding exercise, you need to be aware that you are likely to lose more weight at a faster rate at first, but it will slow down over time.
It is also better to keep track of the inches lost off your body rather than weight (which can fluctuate daily). For this reason, it is more advised to focus on reducing your dress size instead of your weight on the scales.

3. Use technology to your advantage

There are tons of weight loss apps, train for 5k programs and fitness trackers available. While studies show that wearing a fitness tracker doesn’t actually help with weight loss, they can certainly help a lot with keeping you motivated. Take part in challenges, set manageable goals, and use them for enjoyment. Oh, and did you know that the simple fact of logging your food helps you lose twice as much weight? If you are looking for sites to log your food, both SparkPeople and LoseIt are free to use, have mobile apps and great communities for support and motivation.

4. Have a plan

Having a plan will help you stay motivated and achieve your long-term desired results. Take some time over the weekend to put together your meal plan for the week alongside your workout schedule. Then add the workouts to your calendar and treat them just like any meeting you have to attend. Extra tip: Never go food shopping hungry and without a list.

5. Start an Instagram account to highlight your journey

It’s pretty common nowadays to find a lot of motivation on Instagram from people who are doing the exact same thing as you do. Keep in mind that photos may be (and usually are), staged so you will be tempted to do the same. But it’s a nice way to keep yourself accountable, especially if you appreciate the external motivation. Hashtag #GettingFitForWedding.
If you don’t fancy the public attention, at the very least keep a private journal and take regular photos (every 4-5 weeks) to stay motivated. These are extremely useful when you hit a plateau and feel like giving up, or if you have fallen off the wagon and need to get back on track.

6. Use exercise to fight stress

The time between getting engaged and your wedding day is probably the most stressful. You will need to get well acquainted with your soon to be mother-in-law, your quirks, her quirks and so on. With a million things to think about, use exercise not only to look fab on your Big Day, but also to help fight stress. Put your headphones on, blast your favorite music and hit the gym. Or take that class you always wanted to attend.

7. Do what works for you classes

When it comes to choosing a workout, the key is to actually enjoy what you do. Spinning classes may burn a lot of calories but if you hate spinning, you probably will make excuses and be likely to miss out on the classes you have signed up for. If you like to walk, you can lace up and start with interval walking and then move on to jogging, whether outside or at a gym.
In example Katie (SB Fitness client) never liked gyms so she decided to do personal training ahead of her wedding back in 2014, now many years on she attends Invincible bootcamp and follows one of the programs in the gym every week.
To find your own results driven, enjoyable wedding workout book a strategy call with an SB trainer now just by clicking here.

8. Tailor your workout to the style of your big day

If you are planning to wear a spaghetti strap dress, then in the build-up to the wedding we would recommend focusing on arm and back workouts alongside cardio (in various forms). If you prefer a corset, you don’t really want to worry about abs workouts, as the corset will shape you. But, you shouldn’t skimp on cardio. If you go for a bum-hugging dress, then you need to pay attention to your lower body. Choose your dress based on your best assets and just make sure to keep doing your set exercise program.

9. Seek professional advice

There are tons of articles out there about getting fit and losing weight for your wedding, but to make sure you do this the healthy way, you should consider talking to a nutritionist and hiring a personal trainer. At SB Fitness we have years of experience helping brides and grooms get their training and nutrition routines set-up ahead of the Big Day.
Laura, 28 had a personalised nutrition plan and recently did personal training with us 6 months out from her wedding day and actually got told to stop losing weight!.

10. Get a buddy

If your significant other isn’t interested and you don’t have a four-legged friend to take walks with either, enlist the help of your girlfriends. Chances are, at least one of them will want to get fit as well and you two can buddy up. Having someone else (in addition to yourself) for accountability will help a lot. Remember we offer free PT taster sessions for groups of 2-5 people as well..

11. Don’t forget to rest

Remember that sleep is very important and a lack of it can actually hinder weight loss. When you are cranky and sleep deprived, you are more likely to consume the not-so-healthy foods for an energy boost. So, resolve to sticking with a consistent sleep schedule and aim to get 7-8 hours of a night.

12. Make water your fitness best friend

Drinking enough water throughout the day not only keeps you hydrated and looking great, but it also prevents over-eating. Get an easy to carry water bottle and make sure it’s always full and within easy reach.
It is also a good tip to snack on water-rich fruits and veggies, such as cucumber, celery, radishes, green peppers, strawberries, grapefruit, cantaloupe and watermelon.

13. Cook from scratch and master some fail-proof recipes

Whether you decide to make healthier versions of your favorite dishes or want to experiment with new ideas, make sure you have easy and fail-proof recipes up your sleeve. During the summer, swap between a tuna salad and a classic Greek salad, both of which can be easily made at home. For the cold season, lentils and beans soup can be very filling, yet healthy. Mastering the art of cooking from scratch is not that hard, especially if you learn some practical tips to use in the kitchen. To access some delicious easy to-make free recipes just click here.
We very much hope that the 13 recommended tips above help to set you on the right path towards being in top shape for your wedding day!

 
 

 

The Best Wedding Dress for Your Body Type

Whether you want to balance a pear-shaped bottom or add curves to a lean physique, we know exactly which wedding dress style will make you feel stunning on your special day.

Sweetheart necklines show off an elegant neck

via davidsbridal.com

Don’t only consider your curves the main asset to flaunt when choosing a wedding dress. If you have elegant collar bones or a long, swanlike neck, these are two delicate areas you should highlight with your wedding dress. “Sweetheart necklines add a soft, feminine touch to gowns and are perfect for the bride who would like to subtly showcase her décolletage,” says Ericka Hanson, Associate Bridal Buyer at David’s Bridal.

Thick straps are must for busty women

via morilee.com

If you have a larger chest, don’t stress about finding a dress that can accommodate your breasts—just choose one with thick straps. “Thick straps are a great option for brides who need support for a fuller bust, especially if they plan to dance the night away,” Hanson says. And what if you happen to fall in love with a sleeveless dress or one with spaghetti straps? No problem: It’s extremely easy for a tailor to add thick straps later.
Minerva Wedding Dress; morilee.com

Sleeveless gowns showcase toned arms

The-Best-Wedding-Dress-for-Your-Body-Type2

via davidsbridal.com

 
If you’ve been hitting the weights as part of your pre-wedding workout routine, you deserve to show off your toned arms on the big day! Especially if you’re planning to get a great tan, opting for a sleeveless dress is the perfect way for women to showcase their sinewy biceps. “A sleeveless dress allows the bride to show off her arms while providing a supportive neckline,” says Hanson. Prepare to flex those muscles as you toss your bouquet.
 

 

Long sleeves can slim heavier arms

via davidsbridal.com

Don’t stress about getting your upper body into perfect shape before tying the knot. You’ve got enough to worry about! Long sleeved wedding dresses exist for any woman who feels insecure about the size of her arms or any bra bulge. Even if the sleeves are made of sheer lace, they can drastically help smooth over this problem area and even hide any stretch marks. What’s more, they’re actually in demand. “Long sleeves are trending this season!” Hanson raves. “This style is perfect for fashion-forward brides, as well as those looking for a more traditional style that provides coverage.” (Use these exercises to tone your arms without lifting weights!)
 

Corseted gowns create curves

via simplybridal.com

What woman doesn’t want to create the illusion of an hourglass figure on her wedding day? Particularly if your body type is straight up and down, steal a page from the Victorian Era handbook and consider a corseted gown. They’re now designed to feel far more comfortable than they look (yes, you’ll be able to breathe), and they instantly trim inches from your waistline. If you need a bit of help shrinking or shaping your midsection, “a corseted gown offers adjustable support for all body types,” Hanson says. These dresses show off your favorite body parts.
Lina Gown, $1,199; simplybridal.com

 
 

Mermaid dresses flatter petites

via davidsbridal.com

According to Hanson, mermaid dresses “can add curves to a straight figure.” So if you aren’t blessed with voluptuous, womanly assets, use the figure-shaping silhouette of a mermaid dress to create the illusion of curves. The beauty of a mermaid dress is that if you need to add length to your body, Hanson says, “they are also very flattering for petite brides,” thanks to the dropped waist and low flare, both of which elongate your torso.

Ballgowns can balance out a pear shape

via davidsbridal.com

If your bottom half is slighter bigger than your upper half, look no further than a classic ballgown when you go wedding dress shopping. Not only will you feel like an absolute princess as you walk down the aisle and have your first dance, you also won’t have to worry about your bottom half looking disproportionately large. “A ballgown will highlight a bride’s upper body, while being very forgiving for her lower body,” Hanson says. This means a problematic stomach, wide hips, or a large bottom are three less things to worry about on your big day.

 

Fully fitted gowns flaunt curves

via davidsbridal.com

Some brides want to be covered up on their wedding day, while others hope to feel as sexy as possible. If you’re looking to be a bombshell bride, we recommend considering a fully fitted gown. This style of dress will hug every inch of your body like a tight glove, leaving nothing about your shape to the imagination. They’re “perfect for the confident bride who would like to showcase all of her curves,” Hanson says. Hey, if you’ve got it, flaunt it.
 

Sheath dresses feminize

via junebridals.com

If you consider yourself stout, stocky, or very muscular, make sure to try on a sheath dress. Pippa Middleton, for example, is an avid marathoner and triathlete. To soften her muscular frame, Middleton famously wore a sheath dress as Maid of Honor to the Duchess of Cambridge, which softly hung from her body and provided a feminine touch. “The sheath silhouette will elongate a bride’s body, and is best for athletic or straight body types,” Hanson says. (Obsessed with Will and Kate? Check out this royal wedding lingo cheat sheet.)
 

 

Chiffon gowns elongate short legs

via davidsbridal.com

We all want to feel like supermodels on our wedding day, but this can be an issue for short women. To look the part, focus on finding a flowing, chiffon gown. This angelic material often starts at your upper waist, making it perfect for creating the look of elongated legs. “Chiffon lends itself well to draping and is most commonly used in gowns with flowy skirts,” Hanson says. A chiffon gown that grazes the floor when you’re in heels can instantly add inches.

Lace is universally flattering

via davidsbridal.com

Finally, we’ve found the holy grail option all women can consider when wedding dress shopping. “The many types of lace allow each bride to showcase her individual style,” Hanson says. “Delicate chantilly lace is perfect for the romantic, ethereal bride, while guipure lace has a more vintage feel, and corded lace is more classic.” When it comes to lace, you can worry less about your figure and more about expressing your unique personality. For dress inspiration, make sure to re-watch these 12 epic wedding films.
 

Alternative Wedding Outfit Ideas For When You Don't Want To Go With The Typical White Gown

 
On February 10, 1840, Queen Victoria changed the wedding dress industry for centuries to come when she wore a white gown (instead of a red one, which was tradition at the time) to her own nuptials. For a while after then, it seemed that white was the default option, even for less traditional brides. In the early 2010s, bridal designers did start to branch out a bit in terms of color (Vera Wang’s Spring 2012 show didn’t feature a single white dress) but even now, the silhouettes remain largely the same. The biggest trends from Spring 2018 Bridal Fashion Week are stunning, but feature the same cinched waists, lace fabric, and dramatic skirts we’ve been seeing on runways and wedding aisles for decades. While wanting a traditional style is quite understandable (after all, these trends have persisted because they look good) to truly stand out in your wedding photos, it seems shopping outside the bridal section can be a good idea, too.
If you're in the market for an alternative outfit to wear to your wedding, ahead, you’ll find some inspiration that breaks a lot of the unspoken rules about wedding dresses. Some are bridal specific, some are not, but they’ll all look incredible in your photos.

 

Pick A Color Other Than White

 

Dress: Oscar De La Renta
Might as well start with the biggest breaking-the-trend trend of all: wearing a color other than white. If you still like a lighter feel, go for a dress in a super pale shade or one with ombre details. If keeping that "bridal" vibe is important to you, then try sticking with a traditional silhouette — like this dramatic skirt moment — no matter what colour you rock.
 

Wear Two Pieces

 

All Clothing: Brandon Maxwell | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
It's rare to see a two-piece number that isn't a suit walk down the aisle — but clearly, it can work. A fuzzy sweater and dramatic skirt can make a serious bridal statement, especially for a winter wedding, without even treading too far from a traditional silhouette. Bonus points: Pair the ensemble with shoes in a bold color like blue.
 

Buy From Your Favorite Store

 

Dress: Wolford Courtesy Of Shopbop.com | Jacket: Danielle Frankel | Shoes: Tom Ford
While getting married is a great excuse to drop more on an outfit than you usually would, spending thousands of dollars isn’t the only way to get a look you love. Retailers like Modcloth, Anthropologie, and ASOS have their own collections of trendy-yet-affordable bridal outfits — and, to be honest, you can snag a white dress from any of your favorite stores and call it a day.

Take Inspiration From Other Types Of Clothing

Dress: Danielle Frankel | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
The strapless silhouette so often associated with wedding dresses is becoming less prevalent, with designers creating off-the-shoulder looks instead. To amp up the trend one step further, look for gowns that feel less delicate than the traditional style. This ensemble has a trenchcoat feel that would be perfect for a wedding in the colder months.

Wear Sheer Fabric From Head To Toe

All Clothing & Accessories: Simone Rochas
Who says a wedding dress has to be uber conservative? Sheer details have been making their way onto bridal outfits for a while now (especially at the bodice), but now the Naked Wedding Dress has officially become a trend. Going sheer from head to toe with touches of lace makes for an ultra pretty look.

Rock Black

Dress: Alessandra Rich | Shoes: Stuart Weitzman
Perhaps the most dramatic choice for your wedding day look, black dresses pretty much scream cool. Look for one with lace details or layers of tulle to keep it feeling romantic, or opt for a more standard, striking LBD. No rules, no problem.

Ditch The Dress Entirely

All Clothing: Tom Ford | Shoes: Stuart Weitzman
Although it can sometimes still seem this way, a gown actually isn’t a requirement for your wedding day. In 2016, the New York Times reported that more and more designers were creating pant suits for brides after demand for them got so high. In 2018, non-dress options were pretty much expected on the Bridal Fashion Week runways — Naeem Khan even debuted a bridal tracksuit. All that is to say: Anything goes.

Pick A Short Dress

Dress: Hellessy | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Even if you’re wearing pants, wedding ensembles are typically floor length. But that’s not always so practical, especially if your celebration is taking place somewhere with high temps, or your shindig involves lots of dancing. Luckily, everyone from H&M to Marchesa are making short options now. Bonus: They usually cost less, too.

Opt For Trendy, Instead Of Fine, Jewelry

All Clothing & Accessories: Simone Rocha
While your traditional diamond stud earrings and delicate necklaces will probably always be in style, statement accessories more in line with the over-the-top vibe of Victorian royalty are becoming wildly popular, too. In addition to some sweet earrings, try bold hair clips.

Do you need a Wedding Planner?

And just like that, you’re engaged to be married! Congratulations!

Now what?
Now the fun (work?) begins. Where to have the wedding? Indoors or out? When? What is the best month for you, your guests and even your budget? (It’s true, the time of year you choose to have a wedding can have a tremendous impact on the cost).  What time of day? Will you do a plated meal or buffet at the reception or will hors d’oeuvres do? How many guests should you have? (Do you really have to invite your fiancee’s cousins?) Band or D.J.? Rehearsal dinner? Out of town guest accommodations and transportation? Who will do the flowers? The cake? The invitations? And how much will it all cost?
OK, breathe.

Should you hire a wedding planner?

 

Yes, the number of details is staggering. And most brides have absolutely no experience planning an event with this many moving parts.  The first decision you must make is: will I go this alone or hire a wedding planner? Can I even afford a wedding planner? How much does it cost to have professional help?  The answer may surprise you.
Professional wedding planners offer a wide range of services from “day of” coordination to full-service planning. This allows you to take on the details you really want to do, and let the pros handle the rest. After all, you’re the bride. The days and weeks leading up to your wedding should be fun and create wonderful memories for you, your fiancé and your family.  Some wedding planners charge an hourly rate, some a flat fee for just the services you require. Others may charge a percentage of the vendor services they arrange for you. But all experienced professional planners will work within your budget, helping you make the most of the money you have to spend. They know the best deals, the best venues for your unique needs, the most reliable vendors (and what they cost) and can anticipate things you haven’t even thought of. Great wedding planners understand the flow of a successful event, and will help you with timelines and strategies to create a seamless experience from the rehearsal dinner through the after-party or the next day brunch for out-of-town guests.
How do you choose a wedding planner? Experience is key. Visit websites, ask other brides for recommendations, read reviews. Then make the call, book your consultation and start building a relationship. After all, you and your wedding planner will be besties for the next several months.  And when the BIG DAY finally arrives, you’ll have not only fabulous memories to last a lifetime, but a good friend as well.

Choosing the Right Wedding Dress

A bride tries on a wedding gown while a seamstress makes adjustments.
 

Your Perfect Wedding Dress

 
We’ve all seen that “perfect wedding dress” moment in the movies. You know the one we’re talking about: The bride-to-be is at a wedding dress shop, looks in the mirror, and knows that the dress she has on is the one she wants.
In reality, you might try on 25 dresses, decide that you hate all of them. Then you go back the next week and pick one out that you’ve already tried on. You might choose the first wedding gown you tried on. Anything is possible when you’re shopping for the dress—the one you’ve been dreaming about since you were five years old and put a napkin on your head pretending it was a veil.
Shopping for your wedding dress can feel a little overwhelming. You’ve probably never tried on a wedding dress before, or had a room full of people making comments on everything you try on. Not to mention, you’ve never heard all of the wedding dress terminology before.
When you’re ready to shop for a wedding dress, check out our wedding dress shopping tips to help you find that dress of your dreams.

Know Your Wedding Dress Budget

Whether your budget is $8,000 or $80,000, knowing the limits of what you can spend is crucial when shopping for a wedding dress. Of course, many dresses that are drastically out of your budget are going to look fantastic, so it’s best to not risk falling in love with something you can’t afford. Only try on dresses within your budget, and no one will get hurt.

Know What Type of Silhouette You Want

It’s a good idea to do a bit of research online or go through a few bridal magazines ahead of your wedding dress shopping appointment.
Wedding gown designs with different silhouette styles
The most common bridal gown silhouettes you’re going to see will be:

Don’t Be Afraid to Try Something New

You may have always pegged yourself as a bride who would want something over-the-top and dazzling. Something that was a real show stopper. But when you walk into that dress fitting appointment, you may find yourself swooning over a simple sheath gown that fits you like a glove.
Be open minded when you go shopping for a wedding dress. You never know what you’re going to like until you try a few of them on, and you might end up choosing a dress you hadn’t considered.
Wedding gowns on display with many different silhouettes

You Have to Feel Comfortable in Your Wedding Gown

Everyone wants to look her best on her wedding day, but you should also be comfortable. You’re going to be running nonstop all day long talking to relatives, making sure things are running smoothly, dancing your little heart out, and smooching with your brand new spouse. You don’t want to be tugging at your dress, sucking in, or feeling like you have to check to make sure your bra isn’t showing. Pick a dress that’s beautiful and that moves with you.

Go With Your Instincts

You may not have that enlightened moment when you cry your eyes out and hug everyone in the store because you’ve found your perfect wedding dress. You know what looks good on you and what you envision wearing when you are walking down the aisle. Your mom may have an opinion, your sister might love you in the first dress you tried on, but go with your instincts. You know which wedding gown you really love.

Step by Step Wedding Planning Guide

 
Wedding Planning Made Easy
With Christmas and new year being the most popular time for engagements there are a lot of you out there who are just getting used to that new sparkly ring on you left hand! You will also be facing the rather daunting task of planning your wedding! Planning to some people is a dream, to others it can be a nightmare, there are so many different things to think about when planning a wedding, but if you get yourself in order and take one job at a time, you will avoid the stress and may actually enjoy the whole process.
As wedding planner as well as blogger we have planned all manner of weddings, some big some small, some fancy, some low key, BUT whatever the size or style there are always the same basic rules that apply and things that need to be done in a certain order!
So today we are here to help with a step by step guide to help plan your big day!
 

STEP 1)  set your budget/set your theme/Do it together

Sit down with your partner and talk through your ideas together, you should be making these decisions together! Men these days want to get involved; after all it’s their wedding as well. Ask each other what sort of wedding the other has envisaged, you may both have completely different ideas. Do you want a Church ceremony, a civil ceremony or a Humanist ceremony or a blessing?
Once you have done this then look at your budget, yes I know it may not be the most romantic aspect of planning a wedding but it pays to be realistic about your expectations and also it will help with the whole planning process. Talk about what you can afford, what you have saved and how much you can put away each month. The amount of time you need to save may also have a reflection on your wedding date. Also it’s a good idea to find out if family members are going to be contributing, and if so how much? Don’t presume, it’s always good to know at the beginning stages.
Once this done you can look at the mood of the day and ideas on how you want it to feel/look. Do you have any sort of theme, have you seen anything you like the look of, do you have your own ideas how to make the day special to you?
32-Peach-and-Aqua-Tipi-Wedding-By-Binky-Nixon
(Photo by Binky Nixon )

STEP 2) prioritise the important things

Discuss with your fiancé what is important to each of you. For one a photographer may be the most important thing to get organised, the other it may be the entertainment, but you may not be too bothered about the car. This way you know where you need to spend your money and where you can save it. By doing this now you won’t make any mistakes further down the line, by not allotting each supplier enough time, money or attention.

STEP 3) get organised

Get a folder together containing divider cards and plastic envelopes. Make a section for each thing you can think of; venue, photographer, cuttings from magazines, etc this way nothing will get lost. Here you can keep all contacts, contracts, emails and quotes in one place.
It’s also a good idea to put together a spreadsheet with all the details on it; a to do list, guest list, budget planner etc. Keeping everything in one place will help later on in the planning process and make your life a lot easier.
39-Boho-Farm-Wedding-in-Oklahoma-By-Blue-Elephant-Photography
(Photo by  Blue Elephant Photography  )

STEP 4)   set a date and your guest list

Decide what part of the year you both want to get married and check with important family members before you book anything. Be ready to be flexible if you can and have a few dates in mind as many venues may not be available if you only have one date in mind.
Once you have this, draw up a very rough guest count so you have some idea what sort of numbers you have, remember the more guests you have the more expensive the wedding will e, so choose wisely!

STEP 5) keep a check list

Once you have an idea of what needs to be done don’t over face yourself by trying to do everything at once. List each job to be done and then break down how many months you have to do it all before the wedding, then allot each month a list of jobs. Keep this list in your wedding folder and tick off each job as it is done.
58-Rustic-Farm-Wedding-in-Cheshire-By-Cassandra-Lane-
(Photo by Cassandra Lane )

STEP 6) do your research

This may be time-consuming but don’t take the first option given to you, or make hasty decisions. Each supplier needs researching, what was good for one person may not be good for you! By spending time looking at all of your options you will not only save your self-money but create a more personal wedding with your own style.

STEP 7) find your Venue

Finding your venue could very well be the hardest part of the planning process, as it will be the biggest decision you make and set the whole tone for your day. But once you have you will find a lot of things fall into place.
Lots of popular places get booked up quickly, especially if you are looking for a Saturday venue. If you are looking for a Friday, Sunday or mid-week then there may be more availability and flexibility, however Fridays are becoming nearly as popular as Saturdays these days. Try and think outside the box if you are looking for something a bit different. There are so many places that hold wedding licences these days, cinemas, old swimming pools, warehouses, pubs and bars, you aren’t just limited to the old stately home or church. And dental forgets about marquees and tipis. This could be a more flexible option if you are looking to put your own stamp on your wedding day
40-Summer-Fete-Homespun-Barn-Wedding.-By-Toast-of-Leeds
(Photo by Toast of Leeds )

STEP 8)  choose your photographer

You will find that good photographers get booked up a year in advance, so this is one of the first suppliers you need to book. If you have your eye on a certain person you don’t want to be disappointed because you haven’t got your booking in quick enough. Photography is a very personal thing and there is a huge amount of choice. I would advise you  to look at the photographers blogs as well as their website as they tend to put more up to date work on them, also you get to see whole weddings not just the best bits that may be on the websites.  Also look at different wedding blogs as this is often a great way to find the style of photographer you may be looking for. Choose your top 2-3 and go and meet them. It’s SO important you get on with your photographer because if you don’t you won’t be comfortable in your pictures and it will show!  Your photographer is the one person you will spend the whole day with so it’s important you get on.

STEP 9) choose your dress

This is probably the best bit of the whole wedding experience!! To most brides it is so much fun but some brides do find it stressful and put so much pressure on finding ‘The’ dress! The first thing I would say to do is research! Make sure you do as much research as possible. Look through the magazines; search the internet so you have a good idea what you like before you go. Be ready to try as many style’s on as possible and go with an open mind. What you thought you may choose may not be what you finally decide on.  Also a lot of the dress shops have a 9 month league time from choosing the dress to it being delivered to the shop so you need to make sure you leave yourself enough time.
3-Rustic-Pretty-Wedding-in-Kent-by-Jacqui-McSweeney
(Photo by Jacqui McSweeney )

STEP 10) choose your Entertainment

The next thing that gets booked up quickly is entertainment so get in quickly! The type of entertainment you choose can have a massive impact on the party aspect of the wedding. If you are choosing a band, try and get to hear them play first, ask for recommendations and choose a band that fits in with your taste. Also look at different parts of your day, there are so many different options these days from garden games, village fete games, magicians, photo booths, musicals, singers, circus acts….anything goes! Choose something that fits in with your theme and tone of the day.  

STEP 11) catering and drink

Catering is another thing that gets booked up way in advance, so something you will need to look at early on in your planning. If you have chosen a venue that doesn’t have on sight catering then you will need to look into outside catering companies. Many will be able to provide the drink as well, or you may want to hire in a separate bar company, or run the bar yourself to save some money. You need to think about what sort of food you want and take it from there. Many catering companies will be able to help you with your menus choices, offering up ideas and variations.  Remember there are so many options these days, you don’t have to go for a 3 course sit down meal, and something more relaxed may be up your street! A BBQ, Hg Roast, afternoon tea, crepe van, ice cream trick, fish and chip van, a buffet! Choose something that fits in with your day and tastes.
28-Sarah-and-Andys-Spiritual-and-Magical-Ibiza-Wedding.-By-Ana-Lui
(Photo byAna Lui )

STEP 12) choose your suppliers and get organised

Once you have your venue, photographer and dress, entertainment and catering the rest of the wedding will begin to take a bit more structure and fall into place.
Get a list together of everything there is to do, invitations, flowers, cake, decorations, outfits, transport etc keep it simple an excel spread sheet may do the trick or maybe you just like good old pen and paper. Work out when each job needs to be done and spread it all out on a month by month basis. A check list will help you stay focused and also it helps to incorporate the budget which will help you stay on track. Also it’s very important to spend time researching each supplier; don’t book the first person you find. Where you can, go and meet them, sample what they have to offer. Look at their website, but also check out their blogs and Facebook pages, as with the photographers they may have more up to date work on these.

STEP 13)  enjoy it!

15-Cliff-Top-Wedding-Ceremony-by-Daron-Jackson
(Photo by  Daron Jackson Photography )

STEP 14) print this 12 months planner

Here is the 12 month wedding planner that I use as the basis of all of my planning. It is broken down into 12 months but you can adapt it for however many months you have to plan your day. PLUS I have made it downloadable so you can print it off for easy access.
12 month planner

12 months before the wedding

11 months before the wedding

10 months before the wedding

9 months before the wedding

8 months before the wedding

7 months before the wedding

6 months before the wedding

5 months before the wedding

4 months before the wedding

3 months before the wedding

2 months before the wedding

1 month before the wedding

2 weeks before the wedding

1 week before the wedding

2-3 days before the wedding

1 day before the wedding

On the day

STEP 15) or save all the hassle and hire a professional wedding planner!

Wedding Flower Design

Flowers play an important part in any wedding; they help set the tone for a celebration, carry your chosen theme and create a beautiful setting. For many brides-to-be knowing where to start when it comes to choosing your wedding bouquets can be difficult so, before you head out for your first florist consultation, read our expert guide…
 

When should I start thinking about my wedding flowers?

 
Right away! Flowers should be a big consideration for your special day. Choose them wisely and not only will they enhance the beauty of your wedding dress but create a picture perfect setting for your celebration. In terms of finding a wedding florist, start your research a year before your wedding date and make your first appointment once you have chosen your bridal gown and wedding venue as these will be two important factors your florist will need to take into consideration when discussing ideas for your big day.
 
Where should I look for inspiration?
 
Blogs, social media and wedding sites are brimming with big day inspiration so get exploring. Create a wedding flowers board on Pinterest and start pinning ideas as you go- these will prove invaluable for your first meeting with your florist. You could even create a shared board and get input from your groom, ‘maids or mum. If you prefer, take cuttings from bridal magazines and start a scrapbook. At a later date, you’ll be able to add sample swatches of your chosen gown to give your florist a clear vision of your wedding day.
 
What flowers should I choose?
 
It’s a good idea to take into account the time of year in which you will be getting married and consider which flowers will be in season. Seasonal flowers are not only cheaper and easier for florists to source they are also at their most naturally beautiful. That said, don’t worry if your dream wedding flowers aren’t in season when you are due to tie the knot, most flowers can be sourced all year round.
 

How can I make my wedding flowers personal to me?

 
 

As with every other aspect of the wedding, your bridal bouquet is an opportunity to add a distinctive and individual touch to your special day. One of the ways you could personalise your bouquet is by asking your florist to adorn it with jewellery loaned to you for the day by relatives. Lockets, charms, vintage brooches or other trinkets can all be incorporated into the design of your bridal bouquet. This could not only count as your something borrowed but is also a wonderful way to honour the memory of loved ones missing from your wedding day.
If bling isn’t your thing then sometimes the flower choices alone are enough to convey sentimental meaning. For example the Duchess of Cambridge chose to include Sweet Williams in her wedding bouquet, no doubt a tribute to her gallant Prince. Other brides have asked their florist to include clippings from a grandmother’s garden or a flower with a specific meaning for personal significance. For example, did you know that peonies represent a happy marriage? For more inspiration see our post on how to personalise your wedding bouquet.
 
Where can I find a wedding florist?
 
Start your search well before the wedding. The Interflora florist directory is a great place to begin and lists expert local florists in your area or those that are close by to your chosen wedding venue. Compile a shortlist of florists and plan to meet with two or three candidates. Take along a scrapbook of your ideas and ask the florist to show you examples of their recent work so you can get a feel for their design style. A good florist should be able to tell you whether your choices are realistic and to suggest suitable alternatives if certain blooms you have in mind will be unavailable or prohibitively expensive.
 

 

When should I book my wedding florist?

 
You should be looking to book your florist between six to nine months ahead of your wedding day. Remember good florists book up quickly, especially during the height of wedding season. Always get your booking confirmed in writing and be prepared to put down a deposit to reserve your date.
 

How can I make the most of my wedding budget?

 
Look for those blooms that are naturally in season at the time you’re getting married as they are likely to be less expensive and have the benefit of being at the peak of their beauty, just as nature intended. If you are on a tight budget then trusting your florist to make recommendations on flower choices that can help you achieve the overall look and feel you want can go a long way. The other big tip for saving money is to make your arrangements go further by reusing the designs for the ceremony room at the reception venue. You’ll need to discuss logistics with your florist but they will be able to advise you. For more helpful ways to save money on your wedding flowers see our blog post on the topic.

Choosing your perfect wedding venue

While pretty much every aspect of a wedding is optional, from wearing a suit instead of a dress to ditching the flowers to forgoing the wedding cake, there's one thing you can't skip: a venue! After all, you've got to have somewhere for your friends and family to gather and celebrate!

But finding the perfect venue isn't easy. There are so many options to choose from, whether you're looking for a stunning barn, an elegant ballroom, a cozy restaurant, or a quiet stretch of beach. So we asked a few wedding planners to share their top tips for finding your dream venue.

 

Talk to a Wedding Planner First


Yes, before you start looking at spaces! "Planners are much more familiar with the capabilities of a space, the layout, and the time and items you'll need to really transform it," says Alliey Kline-Weichelt, lead planner and CEO of Sash & Bow in Green Bay, Wisconsin. If there's a creative way to make it unique or a quirk about the space that could make your vision hard to accomplish, your planner will know!

 

Know Your Guest List

 

 

The Bridal Shower Advice

Bridal Shower Planning

(Image credit: Leela Cyd)

 
In a perfect world, a bridal shower is a meaningful way to celebrate the bride, and a forum for family members, friends, and coworkers to mingle before the main event. Gifts are given to either make the lady of the hour feel pampered or to enhance her home. The food is tasteful, and planned activities (if any) are low-key and optional.

However, there are a lot of things that can complicate a bridal shower. For starters, some brides don't actually want one. They might be mindful of expenses and don't want their loved ones to shell out for yet another bridal event. Or they might be weary of the spotlight. Add in difficult guests, overly fussy tea sandwiches, and forced activities, and a bridal shower can fail faster than you can say, "crudités platter from Costco."
But it doesn't have to be that way.
I asked dozens of brides — past and present — what they secretly yearned for and what they downright detested. Taken together, here's some sensible advice for you. If you're planning on throwing a shower for a friend or family member, be sure to heed these words.

1. Think about what the bride likes.

This party is really meant to honor her. One fromage-loving bride I spoke to was surprised with a shower at a cheese-centric restaurant — despite the fact that her best friend is lactose-intolerant and gags a little at the smell of cheese. So sweet! Another bride showed up to her shower at a horse stable because her maid of honor likes to ride. Less sweet!

2. If she says she doesn't want one, she probably means it.

Some brides find the whole shower thing to be uncomfortable. "I didn't want one and my mother insisted on throwing some crazy luncheon at a restaurant. I was quietly dying inside the whole time," one bride says. If you're still set on having a shower, see if she'd be okay with a small, gift-less gathering in someone's backyard or a trip to a BYOB painting class. Something less formal can still be nice and appease any family members pushing for something more traditional.

3. Consult the bride on the guest list.

She probably knows she's getting a shower, so it's not like you're ruining the surprise. Talk to her to see how many people and which ones she wants at the shower. Some brides were more comfortable having a tiny party for their inner circle, while others liked having a larger bash.
Another key point: Make sure everyone on your guest list is actually invited to the wedding. Otherwise, it can be mega-awkward for everyone involved. Give the bride final say on who's invited to avoid discomfort or hurt feelings.

4. Tell her when it's going to be.

Bridal showers are typically thrown two weeks to three months before the big day, but don't leave the bride-to-be on edge that whole time. Every bride I spoke to said they either knew or wish they had known when their shower was. This way, they wouldn't get caught off-guard on a sweatpants-and-bad-hair day. Note: You don't have to tell her where it will be or what to expect — just tell her the date (and make sure it works for her!).

5. Help her pick an outfit.

Again, you don't have to tell her where the party will be or what the theme will be, but you'll know if that white maxi dress she wants to wear is a good idea or not. Let her show you her possible outfits and help her pick one to make sure she's dressed appropriately.

6. Consider a "display bridal shower."

Some brides said they were super uncomfortable unwrapping all of their presents in front of their guests. Other brides just felt like it went on forever. Instead, try something called a display bridal shower. "You tell guests not to wrap their presents — bows and gift tags are okay! — and then everything gets put on a table for the bride to see," one newlywed explains. This way, everyone can walk around on their own and see the gifts. "More time for chatting, less time being bored," she says.

7. Do not get her anything raunchy!

No matter how funny you think it will be, do not get her anything raunchy or sexy. Even if you think she'll appreciate it, her mom and future mother-in-law are going to be there — and they might not. It's just better to play it safe and get something off her registry. If there's no registry, get pots or board games. No one is ever offended by pots or board games.

Bridal Shower Planning 3
(Image credit: Brian Samuels Photography)

8. Think very hard before introducing silly games.

If the bride isn't one to get a kick out of cheesy rounds of bridal trivia or wedding dresses made out of toilet paper, it might be best to refrain from those activities altogether.

9. Have a beginning, middle, and end in mind.

"My shower was totally awkward," one bride confessed. "It was decorated to the max, but no one really knew what to do, so we kinda just stood around the whole time." Think about how the party should flow. Start with cocktails and finger foods; then move on to an optional game or two in the middle; and end with dessert, tea, coffee, and goodbyes.

Wedding with Season Colours

Still at the start of your wedding planning process? Ever wish you had a guide to help narrow down the themes and colours that really suit the time of year you’re holding your wedding?

Here we try to do just that. Keep in mind: a grandly-decorated venue is a blank slate you can transform into anything, any time. And some of these themes and colours are great for year-round use, though we didn’t want to repeat them over and over (like Black & White or Fifth Avenue Aqua).
But if you’re here for some great colour combination or theme inspirations for January, June, or anything in between, read on!

March, April Wedding Themes

If your climate cooperates, this is a wonderful time to celebrate spring’s earliest bursts of colour, flowers and delicate life forms: Lilies of Valley and Shasta daisies, daffodils and tulips, butterflies and dragonflies. Brides are instinctively drawn to pastels like lavender or yellow, whimsical and romantic pairings like red and pink, or combos with a modern bent like pink and lime green. A monochromatic look using all shades of pink is also totally spring (and stunning).
Some popular themes for spring? Cherry Blossom, Butterfly, and Irish or St. Patricks, to name a few. Also, popular spring colour combinations that double as themes include Aqua Blue (Fifth Avenue Style), and Pink & Green.

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May, June, July Wedding Themes

Summer brides sometimes complain that they can’t find any summer themes, besides the usual beach or garden. Not to worry though: there’s more here than you might expect. Summer also offers some of the most brightest, most energized palettes for brides who aren’t afraid to play it modern. Contemporary picks include orange and fuchsia, green and hot pink, black against any kind of eye-popping-colour, and chocolate brown and pink (or aqua).
Favorite themes for summer are numerous, but here are just a few: Garden, Daisy, Enchanted Forest and Victorian Garden, Beach, Starfish, Hawaiian Luau, Preppy/Nautical and Poolside. Don’t forget Patriotic or Baseball, Fairytale or Asian Garden, Polka Dot or 50’s Retro, and South of the Border, Rustic Country or Western.
Colour Themes for the warm summer season include all kinds of Green, Cornflower Blue, Orange & Fuchsia, Black & White Toile with summery accents like yellow or pink, Aqua Blue (beach style), and the lighter purples, like orchid or Aubergine.
 

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August, September, October Wedding Themes

The colours alone bring this season near to the hearts of many brides who can’t imagine tying the knot any other time of year. From russet to pumpkin orange and cinnamon to vanilla, the scents and famers’ market decor of an outdoor Autumn wedding makes a setting like none other (not to mention the awesome photos!). Another plus: the grapes are ripe, and it’s time to celebrate a brand-new season of wine.
Popular colours for this time of year include latte, mocha and chocolate brown, rust orange and burgundy, hunter green and gold. Nature-minded themes are all the rage right now, including New England Harvest, Harvest Modern and Halloween, “Perfect Pear” and Apple, Tuscan and Wine Theme, Herbal and Rustic Country. Chocolate Brown also amounts to a theme … one that suits the season to a ‘T’.

Pinterest

November Wedding Themes

November’s long been a sticking point for brides who want to stay close to nature, but aren’t huge fans of the bright, brassy colours of autumn. We’ve try to address this dilemma with our new “Fields of Gold” page, which pays homage to the natural world and November’s subtler palette of creams and golds. For more urban, indoor and delectably chic approach, seize on this time of year for a 1930’s Retro / Art Deco Theme, with its November-friendly palette of gold, ivory, sepia and black, and its oh-so-apt nostalgic feel.
 

Pinterest

December, January, February Wedding Themes

Friends and family are stuck inside, desperately hoping for a romantic diversion. Which is why this time of year’s about making big, elegant gestures: going back in time, playing with lighting levels, indulging in romantic fabrics and heavy molding … in short, transforming an ordinary interior into a portal to another world. Favorite colours for this time of year include ice blue, silver and white, gold, red and green, metallics paired with black, ivory on white and vice versa, and all the shimmery jewel tones.Top themes that fit the season include those with a pale palette and opulent look, such as Calla, Parisian or Versailles, or those with a holiday feel, such as Christmas, Victorian Christmas, Winter Wonderland, or Diamond or Crystal Theme. Of course, Valentine’s Day is a natural for those marrying in February, but the bold red and white palette works just as well for any other deep-winter setting.Finally, maybe it’s the Oscars, or just a need to cut loose after too many dark afternoons, but there’s no better time of year to hold an Old Hollywood or even Vegas theme wedding.As for colour themes that suit this time of year? All-White, Regal Red, Black & White, and Royal Purple make good options.

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What’d We Miss?

We know this list is hardly exhaustive… there are plenty more themes and colour schemes tailor-made for autumn or spring. Why not share some of your favorites below?